I haven’t failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work. –Thomas Edison

December 11 Run: 30:04 (mm:ss), 3.69 km, 8’08″/km

Tonight’s run was an interval run at high intensity with recovery walks (hence the slower pace). The stats show a total of 4.2 km on the treadmill (which included a 3 minute warm up and extra 3 minute cool down). This run was 3 minutes hard (5.6 mph) and 3 minutes easy (walk 3.7 mph) repeated 5 times. It’s the dreadmill, what can I say? I did the run but I look forward to Friday’s steady run outside (45 minutes). I have also noticed I did not run to plan on Monday (40 minutes instead of 45). I misread! That’s a bummer because I could have done the extra 5, the run was so good. There’s no point dwelling over it now, I’m just excited to run this Friday for the full 45 minutes. Hopefully it isn’t puking snow out since that’s what the weather is forecasting. I’ll take the snow but maybe just light enough that I can see and run in. 😀 Maybe the snow can hold off while I’m in my house after my run? Thanks God!

I will get back to enjoying the treadmill!! Maybe by January? I turned on my timer I was using last year for the treadmill tonight to use for my run and noticed I was running 11:1 (11 minute on and 1 minute off). WOAH! I can barely stay alive for 3 minutes on the treadmill without absolutely feeling like I’m going to face-plant. Can’t wait to keep training so I can love the treadmill again for those super cold days.

There are two primary choices in life: to accept conditions as they exist, or accept the responsibility for changing them. – Denis Waitley

Before getting into the details of today’s run, I’d like to extend my appreciation to all of you who send me your support, likes, and comments. Thank you Christine, runrchatts, Jane Likes to Run, and sophiesara for your support after my last post – I needed it and you definitely made me feel a whole lot better after hearing from you. This blog community, the running family, the togetherness, I love it and I cherish your for being a part of this.

December 9 Run: 40:10 (mm:ss), 5.32 km, 7’33″/km

Tonight was a steady run and I felt much more than steady. The sidewalks were very icy and wind was testing how grounded I could keep myself haha. It was -1°C feels like -9°C with winds jumping up to 26kmh from time to time. I had a fantastic run. I was careful, so careful that in my 20 minute walk after, I slipped more during my walk than I did during my run. I felt unstoppable and felt as if I was running very hard in the 6’s and low 7’s. I guess I wasn’t that fast since my overall is still 7’33″/km but that’s okay. I gave it my all tonight and am very proud of myself. I dressed well for the weather and was probably a little too warm.

For those of you who have been looking, I stumbled across a pair of winter pants that are amazing!! They happen to be cycling pants that were misplaced so I snagged them and tried them on, they’re amazing! Minus the fact that the different stitching and swatches of fabric bugged me a little bit (since the pants aren’t seamless), they kept my legs nice and warm!! What are these wonderful pants? They are from Mountain Equipment Co-Op and they have them in Mens and Ladies (don’t worry they don’t have the butt padding even though they’re cycling pants). I only decided to check out MEC since a running friend suggested their private label (MEC) items are more affordable than buying the Nike, Adidas, Saucony, etc. that I’ve been checking out. Check them out here for $75 in the ladies. Free advertising for MEC! Better than the $100+ on the bigger brands even though I do like Nike. Yes, I still can’t believe I spent $75 on a pair of tights either but they are so worth it now!!! I don’t even spend that much on jeans, haha.

My favourite thing about tonight’s run, hearing the snow and ice crunch beneath me. Every step I just felt super awesome! I love the winter and I love the snow, today was no different. I had a tough day at work spending the first 3 hours of my day fixing up errors and touching up all these issues that had nothing to do with my actual Monday tasks that I felt a little overwhelmed due to other people’s negligence. After a stressful day all I wanted to do was curl up on the couch but what I really wanted to do was run, so I decided I’d run to my plan and not skip it just because I had a lousy day at work.

Luck is a dividend of sweat. The more you sweat, the luckier you get.– Ray Kroc

December 7 Run: 37:41 (mm:ss), 5.03 km, 7’29″/km

5k time on my watch was 37:31. The official chip time isn’t up yet; I didn’t even know it was a chipped run until I picked up my race kit. Check it out. The kit is pretty sweet. $40 and you get a full Santa suit, beards are mandatory during race time too!

I’m sure you probably want to see what it looks like on so I will save the photo at the end. 😀
The run was still tough for me, too cold (-4°C feels like -8 with some crazy with that really hurt your hands), then too hot with the beard, hat, and ensemble. My chest really hurt the whole time; guess my inhaler didn’t help as I started a new one today…. It was however snowing a little bit on and off during the run, those moments made me smile. I did feel like I was struggling and not enjoying the run as much as I had liked to and been expecting…. Maybe my hopes were too high and my mind was preoccupied.

After the race. I grabbed a water with runrchatts who joined me for this run and tried to pace me… We didn’t hang around for the free pizza, line was just too long. During the majority of the run, I felt awful seeing him in front of me, it looked like he was walking with a hop because he had to try so hard to go so slow at a “run” pace and I was still falling behind… I still really appreciate the support and sort of company, haha. Thanks for trying to run with me and being there!

I was really hoping this run would get me more into Christmas… I haven’t been feeling well health wise and been a little stressed with work… My tree isn’t up yet and the house has 0 signs that Christmas is even on its way! Seeing all the Santas and hearing the Christmas music did help but now I’m home feeling blue again…

This was supposed to be a fun run but now I’m really bummed out with how horrible I feel for being so slow. I came to terms with my speed but then races like this make me realize just how slow I am. Why does everyone ask about how fast how fast? Couldn’t it be enough that I got out there and was active? Maybe I’m not cut out to be a runner either! Anyways, enough with being negative nancy, here’s a fun photo of me before the race…

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Challenge yourself with something you think you can never do and you’ll find that you can do anything.

December 5 Run: 40:12 (mm:ss), 5.05 km, 7’57″/km

Fact: a snail is about 2.5 seconds slower than a turtle.

Yay! Running outside!!! I did a super long rectangular route and it seems both longer lengths (2 km each) were both uphill, haha. Is this possible? No biggie, I was a little slower but I am still tired from yesterday and my legs felt stiff but still super happy to get out for a steady run. I’m excited to take a rest day tomorrow before Saturday’s big run, the Santa 5k! I’m pretty excited! I’m sure I’ll be super sweaty running in a Santa suit with a beard and hat! It’s going to be so fun!

Hope you continue your running plans towards your goals! I know for me after this Santa race, I’ll be pushing myself to up my pace!

This treadmill run was actually set for 20 minutes at a 4.9 mph or 7’34” pace (total distance , 1.71 miles). It didn’t change but somehow my watch tells me different stats in terms of pace and distance. Oh how I hate the treadmill! I ran the treadmill because it was a tempo run today according to the plan. I really wanted to make sure I kept that tempo pace so I did the run on the treadmill. Thank goodness tomorrow’s run is a 40 minute steady run, aka outside run!! Yes, back to back runs because I skipped Tuesday’s run for a good reason: I got the opportunity to go to a Leafs game, how could I say no?! Well besides the fact that the Leafs only showed up for the second period, I still had a blast but a very late night.

Tonight I decided to review my treadmill run log from earlier this year just to figure how I was able to run 77 minutes (a little over 10k) straight in April on the treadmill?! I don’t even enjoy 20 minutes on it right now. I guess it doesn’t really matter; I now have almost all the gear I need to be running outdoors all winter long! Treadmill will only be for those specific pace/speed/interval runs on the plan until I learn to regulate my pace outdoors.

Today I got to run outside, how wonderful! The weather called for rain/snow forecast so I got up early to run before it hit – so early I didn’t even know what I was doing. The run felt a little more tough than usual. I was tired so I wasn’t sure what I was doing. This could have been because I didn’t take a rest day at all this week – I did cross/strength training on all of my days off of running (a minimum of 30 min cycling + exercises). However, my overall pace was still pretty decent so no disappointment here on that side. I did notice my chest hurting a bit again the last 10 minutes of my run, it may be time to get a refill on my puffer. Good to know it is helping!! 🙂

I’d like to take a moment of your time as you read this and strongly recommend you watch this video (less than 2 minutes). This is one ad that every person in this world needs to watch. At least every North American does, based on our “health” statistics. If you haven’t had seen this video by Designed to Move – a campaign by Nike but not advertised as Nike, so please watch it.

This video speaks volumes to me and I am just shocked that it came out in 2012 and I just discovered it. One of the reasons I run that I haven’t shared is for my kids. I don’t have children right now but I think about the family I want and in 10 or 20 years when I am out with my wonderful husband and happy children, I want to be able to play with them and be a good example of someone who is healthy and active. This video scares me as if I don’t make better life choices now to create healthier habits, I will pass these bad/lazy habits onto my children. When I retire, I want to be able to snowboard, run, and golf every day! Please share this video and continue to blog about how you are being a healthier you. All of your blogs – especially the moms out there, who are balancing work, family, and running, you’re my inspiration. I hope you continue to inspire others as well. Thank you!

Please click on the image to see a full infographic from Designed to Move. This is very educational and provides some insightful information.

Today was a speed training run, aka treadmill run. 5 minute warm up, 10 minute fast (5.6 mph), 5 minute walk, 10 minute fast run (5.6 mph), and a 3 minute cool down walk. I only tracked my actual run duration plus the one walk interval in between. Very very very tough run again. My chest hurt and my arms were grasping on the treadmill every moment I let them. On the plus side, I did run both 10 minute intervals straight at 5.6 mph.

This is how I felt.

Nonetheless, I am happy to have run this Friday evening. A coworker brought in doughnuts today, how could I say no?! I’m the one with the sweet tooth. I kindly said thank you but no thank you…. Then caved after a few jokes and indulged in a 320 calorie doughnut! I know life isn’t about counting calories but being aware of what I am injecting into my body and limiting it to what I need vs want is important since I’d like to lose some weight. I’m clearly not going to lose weight by giving in so easy. Sometimes though, you have to give in and indulge yourself, every now and then. So what’s the big deal that I had a snack that consumes more than my daily sugar intake and is equivalent to the calorie level of my regular lunches? It’s a big deal. I felt guilty the moment I took a bite! I enjoy my fruits so much, that’s all the sugar I need! I could have had my orange instead, which I did later on… I think my eyes and taste buds wanted the doughnut more than I actually did because I didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought I would. Here’s to saying NO next time and no guilty feelings!

I’m excited my next run is a steady run, this means outside!!! Yay!

Here’s to giving into those craving you truly want every now and again, here’s to saying no to those we don’t really want but think we do. Be strong!

Today’s run was a steady run which means outside running!! Yay!! I should have been a little faster but I chose to run outside since it wasn’t a speed/interval run. Yes, I chose to run in -5°C weather (feels like -11°C). I didn’t care too much for pace, (I barely looked at my watch), as long as I achieved the run goal of 40 minutes at a steady pace I would be happy. My heart rate monitor says I exerted a steady flow of effort (even though my pace jumped around a bit) which is good because I did slow down a bit going uphill against wind at a few legs of my run. I am very happy with today’s run except for making the wrong turn. I made an early right turn and missed an entire section I had mapped out prior to my run so I had to make a loop back around to complete the time. Besides being a little frustrated with not knowing where I was going in the dark, I had a wrist light and was just happy to be out. I stayed calm and just continued to run until I hit a major street. A calm run meant a very peaceful and happy run. I am so glad I chose to go outside – I hope you do too.

My legs were cold!! Burr!! I couldn’t feel my toes until 15 minutes into the run – they were tingly and numb but I didn’t mind. I dressed well upper body, just need some better running tights. Any recommendations for below 0?
I love the winter! Running over snow and treading carefully over ice patches made me feel like a champion!

I hope you’re enjoying the crisp weather as much as I am! White hot chocolates, scarves, toques, mitts, snow, and now running!!! 😀

Today I didn’t run outside not only because I was a chicken of how cold it is when it’s pitch black outside, but because I had a speed training session to complete. I’ve been told that once the temperature drops, it’s not ideal to be doing speed training (rapid bursts of high intense running with low intensity cool down periods). I guess the body just doesn’t enjoy warming up and cooling down repeatedly when the temperatures are below 0. Oh and I got a new toy I wanted to test out today while being indoors, a heart rate monitor to go with my Nike+ GPS Sportwatch.

November 25 Run: 30:05 (mm:ss), 3.69 km, 8’09″/km

This run is a 3 minute speed pace run (6’38″/km or 5.6 mph) and 3 minute low intensity pace (ranged from 3.5 to 4.4 mph) repeated 5 times. My low intensity should have been around an 8’20″/km (4.4 mph) but most of my low intensity intervals were at a brisk walk pace around 10:30″/km (3.5 mph). No biggie. I am just happy I was able to hit the speed intervals for the full 3 minutes each time at the right pace I needed to on a treadmill! This is my first time really doing a run like this (following a specific speed training pace within a regular run plan). I’ve done interval running but nothing to push myself to the max each interval. The treadmill is very tough; maybe because the image in front of my treadmill makes me dizzy, maybe it’s the visibility of all the numbers and counting down the work out instead of getting lost with nature, or maybe I’m just a big wimp.

I am feeling a little overwhelmed, reading too much about running, getting too many conflicting ideas/work out plans, and just so much to process and decipher, it’s information overload! Don’t get me wrong, EVERY LITTLE BIT OF INFORMATION HELPS!!! I really enjoy reading your blogs and your opinions. It’s more reading articles and speaking to other runners where I don’t quite feel like I belong. I just haven’t grasped everything everyone is always talking about. I feel I’m still struggling too much for how much time and effort I have put in. In no means am I asking you to stop commenting or sending me messages!! PLEASE KEEP PROVIDING ME HELP!!! Every piece of information is important. I treat each item like gospel and that could be my issue – trying to achieve everything because there’s so much good out there!

Any-who, if you have a good suggestion on figuring out your ideal Heart Rate while running or a site you can send me to, that’d be just fantastic! I’ve found a few online but was just wondering what should be my real guide? What do you use?

Hope you’re off to a good start to the week.

Happy Running!

rundmach

P.S. Yesterday, I was a little bummed out all morning; in a bit of a funk you’d say. Why? Because my plan didn’t call for running yesterday!! What’s up with that? No run on a Sunday? Well I fixed that up with some cross-training later in the day to make up for it (cycled and did various mini workouts).

If you wait for the perfect weather conditions, you’ll never get anything done.

Today marked the first real snowfall where I live. What better way to celebrate than to go outside for a run?

November 23 Run: 30 min steady, 3.94 km, 7’38″/km

If you’re new to my blog, or may have forgotten from last year, I LOVE SNOW! I love to snowboard and I love the winter season. I have not been able to mix my love for winter with my love for running but today I did this. Today, I had one of my happiest runs I have had in a very long time. My 30 minute run at a steady pace was at just about the right speed I had to be (none of this treadmill nonsense). There was half a km uphill against 32 km/hr winds where I slowed down to about 8’40″/km but come on, Uphill and Against the wind, I didn’t care as long as I was still moving. I felt pretty awesome running against that wind and in snowfall (which didn’t last the entire run; it was on off snow). Near the end of my run, the snow really started falling hard and I couldn’t help but have the biggest grin on my face as I was finishing my last 4 minutes. I swear, there was a lady walking by me with her groceries in one hand and other hanging onto her hood to keep from blowing away, stared me down and thought I was crazy for being so happy running in the snowfall.

Breathing was awesome during this run too. I didn’t struggle finding my breath, my chest didn’t hurt, I loved absolutely every minute of my run. It was 0°C (felt like -6°C). I was worried I’d be under dressed but my top was probably a little too heavy as I was pretty sweaty but now I know better. I am so excited to run more in the cooler weather!!!! I do wish I had more chanced to run in day light other than on weekends but I am content with this.

I’d also like to welcome back fellow blogger runrchatts who came out to run 30 minutes with me today! His run plan required him to run 4 km steady, so we both started at the same time and I took an earlier turn for a shorter loop and he went on. After about 25 minutes he caught up to me, not very shocked but very happy 🙂 I met him at the end where he finished his 4 km and I finished my 30 minutes.

I wish I had been able to capture the beauty of the snowfall while I was out but I don’t run with my phone so no pretty pictures. I hope you got to enjoy your day today and get to embrace the winter!

Okay, so my last post I said who cares how slow I go as long as I go. Yes, I still believe that but I also don’t believe that I should be running THIS slow on a treadmill. I’ve never had a run at this pace and still feel I was running. I’m really hating the treadmill right now seeing that I am running 2 minutes slower per km than I am outside and it feels just as tough!! It’s a little depressing seeing on fitness trackers that doing 9 minutes per km is a brisk walk pace and I’m actually running at that pace. Huh?!

So here it is, who cares how cold it is or going to get or how dark it gets, I am running outside!! I will invest and put some money into stupid expensive winter running gear and be prepared. There’s no good routes to run when it’s dark here because the paths are not lit at all. The streets are short and boring but I bet they’re more enjoyable than on the treadmill!! I will figure this out and get outside to complete my runs!

Here’s to wishing happy runs for all of us! 🙂

rundmach

P.S. I completed my cross training again yesterday as per plan with some boxing, stationary cycling, and various strength training exercises.

It seems I get too ambitious and think about all these amazing plans and possibilities of what I can do. Too much overloading of wanting to achieve too much all at once. I have finally realized this and am going to stick to ONE goal, one plan, and focus on one final result. I want to lose weight while running. Goal, lose weight. Plan, follow the Run 4 Fat Loss program (8 weeks). Result, Lose Weight!

November 19 Run: 35:06 (mm:ss), 3.87 km, 9’04″/km

Holy smokes that’s a slow pace. It’s a good thing I’m not in it to race, I’m running for me in my own race. This run that was tracked was a 5 minute warm up walk (normally not included in my time) and 30 minute steady pace. This is supposed to be a 70% effort, which I started on my treadmill at 5.2 mph and slowed down to 4.2 mph. I tested myself by trying to say a sentence out loud and I struggled with that even at such a slow pace. I’m not sure what my problem is. It almost doesn’t matter what the pace, I’m constantly struggling and putting out the same intensity. However, with that said, I will trust the program and keep my slow steady runs around this pace seeing that I can run at a faster pace (even if I can’t have a conversation unless I’m walking).

I will post the plan once I get it all worked out. I’m following a plan I found online from runkeeper and also using some tools and suggestions from getgoing-getrunning. I’ll incorporate a few other theories I’ve read successes about from all of your blogs and comments.

So the plan should be simple enough, follow the plan one step at a time! Don’t get overwhelmed. It’s nice to dream and be ambitious, it’s nice to set goals, but maybe right now is not the time to try to finish a half marathon on a run walk plan. (That’s why I’ve been doing run 4 walk 2; I was following a Women’s Half Marathon training guide). This new plan will be tough but it seems attainable while still being a challenge.

STAY FOCUS! HAPPY RUNNING!!!

rundmach

P.S. I did cross training yesterday on my rest day too! Woohoo. I cycled on my stationary bike and did some random exercises. 🙂

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Expect the best, plan for the worst, and prepare to be surprised.Never expect less of yourself!

November 17 Run/Walk: 40:01 (mm:ss), 5.15 km, 7’46″/km

Today, I completed another 5K outside running 4 minutes and walking 2 minutes. Despite the Wind Warnings and risk of thunder showers all day, I went outside and took advantage of the 12°C cloudy weather. If I don’t run both days during the weekends, I lose running during daylight. I expected today to be slow and painful but somehow, today was much better of a run all around compared to yesterday. I didn’t over dress, I was confident, I was sore but faster, I didn’t feel like my chest hurt as much, a lot more runners outside as well, and overall I enjoyed the run much more!

Trying to keep my blog posts short so I’m not ranting and rambling soooo….
I’m so happy to have gone for a run today and hope you’re enjoying your day too 🙂

Today’s routine, Run 4 walk 2. Huge challenge. How’d I run for over an hour straight earlier this year ? Oh right, I was 10 pounds lighter… I’m not ready to stop running even if it’s once or twice a week. Well here’s to keeping my spirits up and continuing to find ways to push myself and make time!

I did run outside today because it was so beautiful out today here!! Scenery, 100x better than the treadmill. 🙂

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I don’t even know where to begin. It seems I’m always cycling back to writing this message. I appologize in advance as this may come off as a very negative post but it is not, I just need to vent a little. I’m sorry I have not been running or blogging or following your blog. I’m sorry to myself and feel ashamed to consider myself a runner. I am no runner. It has been almost an entire month since my last run. I made every excuse possible to not run. It’s too cold, it’s too dark, I’m in another province (Wahoo, my eldest brother got married and I was away for over a week), etc, etc, etc.

November 10 Run: 35:49 (mm:ss), 4.07 km, 8’47″/km

These stats are based on my Nike+ GPS SportsWatch. I did my first run of the season on my treadmill this morning. I have finally put it together, since moving to my new home back in June, with the support of a great friend. The treadmill stats say I ran less but faster so I’m not even sure what to believe anymore. I’ll stick to the GPS watch as that will be the one constant that will follow me when I do run outdoors.

Mentally, I always want to run and I always feel like it’s the one thing that’s missing in my day. So how is it that I don’t do it and come up with all these excuses? Am I that weak mentally to not be able to push myself? Even today’s run, I followed the treadmill’s running plan to Run hard for 30 seconds (between a 6-7.4 mph pace) and jog/walk for 90 seconds (between 3.9-5 mph pace). My pace for today overall was ridiculously slow. However, I’m not upset about this at all, it is my first run in almost a month! I am just disappointed with always feeling sorry for myself and disappointed I keep finding excuses. What’s wrong with me? I want to do this!! It is tough when I do it, I can’t breathe right still but I love doing it. I love writing my blog and following your blog for inspiration, yet I’ve fallen behind on that as well. If I love to do something so much why do I keep myself away from it? Okay, I get it, I’m just ranting now and need to stop.

On other news, there’s only 4 more weeks until the Santa 5K!!! I’m excited to do this fun run for myself. It feels a little odd not doing fundraising or a charity support on this. It will be fun and probably super cold! If you have a suggested 5k run plan for 4 weeks (or 7 week to the 5K Resolution Run on December 31st), please send it over (dmach88@gmail.com)!! I’m looking to increase my speed as I was running a 5K in around 36-38 minutes. I’d like to be running at the average speeds around 30-35 minutes for a 5k but can’t seem to get myself there. Do you have any good plans?

I’ve been thinking about so many things to write but here I am expressing to you my shame with how I have one again fallen off the tracks. I’m not disappointed with my run today, I am disappointed with all the runs I didn’t do. I was in one of the most beautiful places during my vacation for my brother’s wedding, Banff (where I’d like to retire one day and Canmore, where his wedding actually was). I even brought my running shoes and all my “cold” weather running gear. I did not run. 😦

This post could go on for pages about how disappointed I am and how many runs I have missed; but, I’ll leave it at, I am still very happy with my life and enjoying everything else in my life. Work is a challenge as always and I have not made enough time for my friends but what I do get to do and what I choose to do every day, I am Happy. I need to make more time and create more energy. 🙂

I will end this post with a question to you all, what are your limits? When do you decide it is treadmill time? Is it because it’s pitch black outside by 5 PM before you even leave work, is it when it falls below 0 degrees celsius? How do you find motivation to run outside? (I want to run outside!! The treadmill was good and comfortable because I was warm, but nothing like being outdoors).

Today was a very long day at work! There’s a lot going on with my work life that I can’t really share online, so just know that I wish I could vent but need to be professional. I am very conflicted by a lot of my thoughts and passion with my work life right now… In hopes of relieving stress, I went to run tonight after getting home, I was so frustrated and angry, there was nothing else I wanted more than a good run. (Also one of my poor fishes died this morning before I went to work. 😦 )

October 15 Run: 36:49 (mm:ss), 5.02 km, 7’20″/km

I did indeed have a really good run! I could have go a few more KMs I feel but it was getting quite dark (aka scary) outside. I really needed the therapy but it was very challenging; I kept straying back to work thoughts and getting upset. Eventually, the last KM was when I finally let go and just pushed myself to run, finishing the last KM in 6 minutes and 34 seconds!! It really is true, when I push myself, I can run a lot faster! I did however run in intervals today: 8 minutes on, 1 minute off for the first 27 minutes then did a straight run to finish 5k.

Is it true then? Running intervals is the way to go and get faster? How do other runners just run and never stop but keep increasing pace? I need to do some more research!

It was tough not running over the weekend either! Last week I hurt my feet from work and had to spend most of Saturday in bed (couldn’t be on my feet at all); I won’t get you too caught up in it, I’m better now and that’s all that matters.

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I got up nice and early this morning to do a nice little 5k run. A little chilly! It was 8ºC (46ºF). I wore shorts and a long sleeve. Probably need to go the other way. Longer pants (kapris or full pants) and a t shirt. I could feel my skin crackling on my thighs, but it was a great feeling! What do you wear when it gets to 0ºC? I know the rule to always dress 10 degrees warmer than the actual temperature, but really, when do I start pulling out the gloves and headband to cover my ears?

October 9 Run: 39:46 (mm:ss), 5.02 km, 7’55″/km

So, it was a little cool and I was running slow just to get the distance in but when I got to my last KM at around 33 minutes, I said I can’t finish a 5k in over 40 minutes so I kicked it up a notch. I finished my last km in 6 minutes 31 seconds!!!! Well, I guess it’s true, when you set our mind to something, you can do it! I need to keep pushing myself to be the best me I can and I won’t stop!

Since my last post, I have decided all my runs will have to be 5 k and if they aren’t then the following run will be increased by the difference. Let’s say tomorrow I run 3 km, then the following run will have to be 7 km! This will hopefully get me to the 1000 km goal in a shorter time 🙂 .

In an earlier post in September, I mentioned wanting to sign up for more runs before the year is over. I have now officially signed up for two runs in December!!

December 7: Santa 5K – Everybody has to be in the Santa costume that comes in your race kit to participate!
December 31: Resolution Run

These two runs are more fun runs for myself. These will most likely be done in snow! I could already see my breath all morning during my run and even fogged up my own glasses sometimes, haha. I’m excited to be part of these two runs as it will really push my limits and be a staple of how far I’ve come from not running to running in the Canadian Winter!!! 😀

I hope you remember to take some time to reflect on your success in running and in life. If you haven’t, take some time and reflect, you’re a wonderful human being and you’ve come a long way, be happy and be proud of your success and how far you’ve come in life.

I hope you all had a successful weekend! I have two updates to post for this weekend a few other notes to share.

October 5 Run: 27:04 (mm:ss), 3:31 km, 8’11″/km

October 6 CIBC Run for the Cure: 38:00 (mm:ss), 5.41 km, 7’01″/km

Saturday. Let’s cover Saturday’s run first. I CAVED and had to get out for a run. My last run was Tuesday and by Saturday I was dying to run again and just couldn’t wait until Sunday so I let myself outside and said I’d do 3 KMs and at a very very slow pace. I accomplished this and felt better than ever. I was sooo happy I gave myself this run. After a run early in the morning and a late night getting in from my first ever NHL Hockey game at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto to watch the Leafs’ home opener vs the Ottawa Senators, I called it a night at about 1 AM. I don’t stay up late so this made me worry a little bit about having to run the next morning.

Top right is pre run and bottom left is post run.

Sunday Morning. Not a problem! Let’s wake up and shower (yes my pre-race routine includes a shower). Off we go. Running for a Cure, my friend and I did the run to raise money for a better future for all of our breasts. Our team raised $680!! This makes me very happy!! I hope one day we can find a cure for cancer (and breast cancer). The atmosphere, energy, and support of everyone at this venue was incredible. I loved all the kids and the spirit that was there!! This is definitely a run I want to continue to do every year for as long as I am alive. I am happy that I am running and continue to run for a cause.

The Run. This is my second time doing this run. My first was my first ever race last September – this was a Big Day for me. It was last year and it is again this year. It marks my progress over the last year. I finished the 5k run almost 2 minutes faster! Although I luckily wasn’t sick this year and gained a bit of momentum from that, I did learn a lot about myself and being a runner in the last year. The Route had changed due to construction and instead of 5k it was 5.4km! What a bummer.. By the time I realized this, I was 150m away from 5k so I gave it my all to try to hit my 35 minute goal… The finish line was actually much further away so I didn’t realize I had to empty the tank earlier than where the finish line actually was. I was unsuccessful at this and finished 5K in 35:19. Although I finished with a group of Warriors around age 9 – 11, it’s not too shabby. I’m getting better!! I did run nonstop and tried to pace my friend but she drifted off after about 1.5km in; I did get to finish, walk back and run through the finish line with her again; that felt great being able to see her push through and destroy her 5k time! Can’t wait to see her progress in a year when we run this again next year. 🙂

More Happiness. Today’s 5k also marked my 500 km recorded on Nike +! That’s pretty awesome that I’ve run over 500 km as of today. I cannot wait to destroy this and get to 1000 km in even less time and less number of runs. This is definitely a huge milestone for me and I’d like to give a shout out to runrchatts for beating his first 500 km on Nike+ too! He also wore a pink ribbon today while he did his run for his half-marathon training. Thanks for the support 🙂

Other Notes. This will be my last fundraising efforts for 2013. I thank everyone who had supported me/the cause I have been raising awareness for. I know I have exhausted all of you, my friends, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving what you can. In the next two months I am looking forward to volunteering and getting hands on with helping before I start to look at fundraising again in the new year. I do also have two other runs I plan on signing up for but those are both fun (non chipped timed) runs that I’ll be doing more for myself. I love to run and I think adding in some runs just for the experience and joy will be great to add to the list of my race history. I feel that over this weekend I have had so many thoughts I wanted to blog about but as I’ve run out of time and left blogging to Sunday night before bed, I am scrambling with those thoughts… I will update you with any further notes I may have throughout the week as I continue to run. Thank you for reading, following, liking, commenting, and supporting me. Thank you for being you and awesome!

Tonight’s run was a time to pace my friend who has decided to join me again in running. If you recall My First Post, my friend was unable to continue running as she got shin splints, ouch! Well, I’m happy to welcome her back into running. She joined our team for the Terry Fox run and her and I are a team for the CIBC Run for the Cure run as well.

October 1 Run: 22: 22:58 (mm:ss), 3.06 km, 7’30″/km

Just on pace!! It was very hard trying to pace at this speed. I found myself going too fast or too slow a lot, but eventually thought I found a happy medium. After plugging in my watch it looks like I was still fluctuating all over the place but kept an average at exactly where we wanted. I did feel super comfortable running with her and focussing on her running over mine. I could actually get out sentences without sounding like I’m going to die. So, is this because I’ve switched my focus or because the last few runs have been spent focussing on increasing my pace?
It doesn’t really matter, I’m just happy with tonight’s run!

It was a long long long day at work and pretty overwhelming doing a lot of requests and not getting to my own work. I think she had the same kind of day as we sit right next to each other at work. The run, the perfect therapy! Not to mention the veggie sushi rolls we had pre run. Yum!

My question for all of you, how do you keep a steady pace? I use a watch and still can’t maintain very well.

Whether you’re running alone, with a friend, or in a group, I hope you’re running happy! 🙂

I’m not on a running plan right now but I know most runners do their long runs on Sunday which should now be known as Runday going forward! If Subway can rename the days of the week to chicken teriyaki , so can runners!!

Today’s a busy day and I wanted to make sure I got a run in even if it meant running early and my body wouldn’t be fully recuperated from last night’s run… I got up and headed out.

September 29 Run: 25:22 (mm:ss), 3.41 km, 7’26″/km

After reading a bunch of inspiring blogs this morning, I set out to complete 5k after discovering the Automattic’s World Wide WP 5K from Striding Toward’s Life. It’s pretty neat how the blogging community comes together and the running community is so strong.

As you can see by my results, I didn’t achieve 5k today. These aren’t excuses but just plain truths. My body was definitely still tired from yesterday, my body felt so foreign to me as I tried to push myself. That caused me to run a little bit slower, but no big deal, just cover the distance. Then this happened… Over my last few runs I’ve been feeling like my left shoe is tied too tight as the top of my foot is hurting quite a bit once I start running. Today, I virtually tied a knot at the end of the laces and my foot still hurt!! By about 2k I realized, it’s not the shoe that’s too tight, it’s my foot!! I could feel my foot ripping apart. Oh no!! What was I going to do? It hurt so bad today I actually stopped to walk but then I had to completely stop when walking caused the lower arch of my foot to hurt. What was I to do? The top hurt the most while running… after a minute I just said okay let’s keep going and see how it feels, by the time I looped around the corner and got closer to home. I decided that I would just run my way home and call it a day, after all I did get in my 5k yesterday but I really wanted to get the 5k in today for the love of running! I kept pushing… then realized, I need to be smart, I need to listen to my body, if my foot is saying stop, I should stop. So I got home, grabbed some water, and went for a walk to cover the rest of the distance. When I walk, there’s no pain. The last thing I wanted to do is hurt myself before next Runday’s CIBC Run for the Cure 5k charity run.

The results, Falling for the Best will be my contribution to the wwwp5k! I don’t run with a camera phone or anything so I couldn’t take a photo of my run but I’m excited to use yesterday’s run as it was a personal best in the last little bit. It was a very successful run and I’m glad I did it and happy I can put it towards the wwwp5k.

I hope you remember to listen to your body! It’s good to push and strive for greatness but sometimes, you do just need to step back and take a breath, it doesn’t mean you’re quitting or giving up, you’re just building up more energy to destroy the next run!

Tonight was going to be an “easy” run to do a 5k since I’ve been pushing to up my speed the last two runs. Well, I just did my fastest 5k since early May of this year. Woohoo!!! I’ll always take a win. Today was a test and practice run to pace myself. I set the first 3k as the standard to just run a slower steady pace with no walk breaks, between 6’40” to 7’00″/km. I don’t know how people can pace so well?? I just run! My breathing is still super hard and I’m sure all the passer-bys are wondering if I need an ambulance. I noticed today as I was trying to train myself to pace, (can’t rely on my watch, especially at night when it’s so dark out), no matter how fast or even slow I moved my legs, my breathe was the same. It was hard and heavy but I added one then two more steps in the same breathing count and the breathing was the same but my legs could move faster, or slower. So what’s my problem? I don’t think I know how to breathe…. I’m breathing in and out trying to use my stomach and inhaling through my nose and out my mouth… No dice, I’m still struggling to get air in at the same rate, no matter how hard I’m moving the rest of my body.

Well, regardless of not being able to keep a steady pace, I completed 3k straight in about 21 minutes, walked a minute, ran 900 meters, walked a minute, and completed the run as strong as I could. I am so proud of myself for the time I did run. This gives me so much hope with how much faster I can actually run and how much more I can continue to push myself!!!

Although this is not a PR or anything, it feels like a personal best, at least it is for the last 4 months!! This fall season feels great for running with cooler temperatures and great inspiration surrounding me to be the best version of me I can be. Only one more week until the CIBC Run for the Cure! Hopefully my 50/50 raffle and fundraiser raffle for a day off at work will drive in some dollars for the cause.
Can’t wait to beat some actual personal records and continue to help drive change in the world!

I’d like to believe I’m a runner… not the elite but somewhere in that breed!!

Hi there,

I’m just logging in my run so this will be short.

September 25 Run: 20:03 (mm:ss), 3.01 km, 6’39″/km

YES!! My goal today was to run 3 km in under 20 minutes (6’40″/km pace), I think I did it?!!! My Nike+ says I did the 3k in 19:58, Wohoo!!

As I’ve been mentioning my, 30 Day Challenge, check out that link!! I’ve just finished day 15 and my legs feel great, arms are still a little weak and doing push ups is a challenge but that’s why it’s the 30 Day Challenge!!

This run was a planned experiment. It did happen a lot later in the day than I had hoped but it happened and I’m glad it did. After talking about my slow pace for so long, I decided, why aim for the 5k every run, why not shorten it down to a more “intense” run, let’s see what I can really do. My fastest ever 5K I had completed in 34 minutes (that’s 6’46″/km), I am now ranging around the 38 minute mark, how does one get slower? Well, it’s not for the lack of trying I can tell you that. This has got to be mental and some physical.

Today’s test, Run as fast as I can for 1KM, walk 1 minute, run the next km as fast as I can, walk 1 minute, and run the last 800 meters the fastest I can. Goal was to do 3k as fast as I can.
Well, who knew, I ran this in a pace that is an entire minute faster than my currentaverage pace. Not to mention, the 1st KM I ran in a minutes, that’s huge for me!! That means if I can add distance to my average speed today, I can knock out that 34 minute, 5k, from May and run at the speeds I was earlier in the year – Maybe I’ll even hit running under 6 minute km’s like I did last year… Where did all my speed go?

Another part of this experiment was to test my breathing and my chest/heart… Well, it turns out the harder I push my legs, the same rate my heart beats and same breathing patterns: I’m still breathing hard and heavy, my heart is still pumping as hard as every, but my legs just keep going. It was an 8 minute to walk home and my heart was still going but the cool down walk was very nice.

I know I have gained some weight since last year (actually about 10lbs), so it’s fair to say that my speed would slow down. But, after all of this, I’m drawing the conclusion that it has to be mostly mental. I’ve got a new plan, run less but run harder. Not always but maybe every other run or once a week. Then add more distance each time, just a little bit. I will still have those slow & steady runs of course. I’m going to look into some more detailed 5k run plans and see if those can help build up my endurance and speed.

The next run is in 2 weeks; it is the very first 5k event I ever did (last September – The Big Day!). I can’t wait to run this again even though the route has changed a little bit due to construction. I was sick last year but I motored on and got through it in less time than I can run 5k now!…… This year, I plan on being in good health and will hopefully run a PR!!!

Today I went for a run in the morning before work, sometime around 6:30 am.

September 19 Run: 40:05 (mm:ss), 5.03 km, 7’58″/km

Although today’s run was slower on time and tough on my chest, I enjoyed the run as always. Something odd was happening with my chest, no breathing but just a bad aching pain. Besides that, the rest of the run was great. The crisp morning air was so refreshing!

I also didn’t get a chance to blog this morning and I felt a little off all day at work; all I wanted to do today was blog. Now I feel like I’ve forgotten everything I wanted to say ad share… Oh well. Maybe next run/blog will be a bit more inspirational.

What’s that?! 10K non-stop, that’s right!! I didn’t stop, I may have slowed down to an 8 km per hour pace at one point but I didn’t stop and I even ran an extra 200 metres pass the finish to hit the full 10k!!

HUGE HUGE HUGE Thank you goes out to runrchatts, CJ, and CF for coming out and running with me!!! My pace is pretty slow but it’s good training for them 😉 . They never left my side and just kept running with me. This made a HUGE difference. For CF this is her first 5K of straight running, awesome!! Those new shoes paid off!! (Don’t worry readers, she wore them in before the first run today, 🙂 ). To achieve this 10K means a lot and having these guys and gals next to me is just so amazing! Big shout out to Nick @ Striding Towards Life for dedicating 10K today to Terry Fox and really running for all the children and all the people affected by cancer. We also had another team member run at a location closer to his home, he did his first 6km run, ever! He also did it in 25 minutes; amazing!!! Thanks MD for joining in on the team! 🙂

This was my ultimate goal I set out last year from not running to being able to run this particular 10k straight for charity, I did it. This feels incredible!!! Our team raised $335 for The Terry Fox Foundation!!! Cancer better watch out because there’s going to be a cure and it’s going to get it’s butt kicked out of this world!

If you’ve never heard of Terry Fox, check out The Terry Fox Story – this original movie from 1983 is great. You could also see the newer Terry film from 2005 for a bit of a different more recent retelling of his story and journey. Both are very inspirational movies I’d recommend you watch.

There were moments I wanted to stop and walk, moments where I said to myself it was okay to walk, but in the end, those thoughts were pushed out with, it’s not okay, Terry did a marathon a day with one leg and he didn’t do it for himself! I did it!!! I just kept running and running. Now to keep running and maybe get to a half marathon one day? Slow and steady!! It is no shock any more how slow my pace is compared to most other runners, but especially today, this is not a race. This is all about me and if I do a half marathon (21.1 k / 13.1 m) in 2 1/2 hours or even 3 hours, I will be soooo stoked for finishing.

“The miracle isn’t that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start”- J. Bingham

I am definitely left speechless with how supportive everyone has been on this journey and how incredible I feel. It’s beyond a runner’s high, it’s happiness and bliss. I am loving life and everything it has to offer.

” I just wish people would realize that anything’s possible if you try; dreams are made possible if you try.” – Terry Fox

Can’t wait for more wonderful journeys to share with you and a healthier, happier life 🙂 .

Tonight I have a few other thoughts to share with you, so the running bit will be short.

September 12 Run: 39:56 minutes, 5.03 km, 7’56″/km

A little slower than the last run but it was still challenging and felt amazing! It’s down to 16°C (61°F)!!!! It’s not 40°C any more!! Yay!!! With that being said, the run felt soooooooo good. I thought I was steady and quick; apparently my time says otherwise, but I loved tonight’s run. I am happy with it and glad I have done it. 3 days to 10K!

Yesterday, I started a 30 day challenge. Similar to all the ones you may find on-line, I’ve drafted my own 30 day challenge to include: push-ups, squats, sit-ups, hip raises, leg raises (single and double), and planks. The biggest challenges here will be starting day 1 at 50 squats & 10 push ups and ending day 30 with 250 squats and 75 push-ups. I’m really excited as day 2 is over and I already feel more confident in doing the push-ups, planks, and squats. I’m stoked to get to the end of the 30 days and be able to do 250 squats!!! It’s getting late here and I want to cover another topic before I end this post so I will post the 30 day challenge as soon as I find time to type it up.

THE TERRY FOX FOUNDATIONI am so happy to share with you that so far we have raised $285 for The Terry Fox Foundation, with another $50 on its way from left over payments from the Silent Auction Fundraiser. From the bottom of my heart, Thank You to everyone who has supported this cause and my team with your words or encouragement and donations. To the anonymous donors to those joining me in this journey to some how complete 10K on Sunday, Thank you!

“I want to set an example that will never be forgotten” – Terry Fox

I am absolutely touched by the bloggers and followers and friends who support me day in and day out. I look forward to your stories for encouragement and for strength when I feel like I have nothing left to draw inspiration from and want to give up. You give me hope that there is still a lot of good in the world.

To every reader out there, I wish you all the happiness in the world that your heart can manage.

Only one week left to the next charity 10 k – The Terry Fox Run. I’m no where close to being able to run 10 k straight through but I will complete 10 k no matter what!

September 8 Run: 37:42 minutes, 5.07 km, 7’26″/km

Today was a much better run! RunRChatts came out and we did the run together. It’s been a while and although I’m sure I’m too slow for him, I was running much faster than I normally do trying extra hard to keep up. Even though I can’t really speak when I’m running (which I know means I’m running too hard) and I have headphones on, the company means a lot. I’m glad he came for a run with me.

Now that the weather is getting a little cooler and running is a little easier, have you been signing up for races? I’m trying to but am finding it hard to commit. For whatever reason, I really want to be running with others and am finding it difficult in getting support. I’m not asking for others to run at my slower pace, but just to have a group at the end who would wait for me and we can all celebrate our success together. Do I need to join a running group to meet running friends or get some encouragement? It’s not that I’m trying to come off as weak and can’t do things by myself, I’d just like to be able to celebrate the wins of finishing a race at the end with someone other than myself. Plus, signing up for races sets goals and targets that I have to hit. I can’t be so wishy washy about running since there are actual finish lines to cross.

There are quite a few runs and races I want to sign up for coming up:
October 6: CIBC Run for the Cure
October 20: Turkey Trot Trail Race (I’ve never even ran trail before?)
December 7: Santa 5K (Everyone has to dress as Santa, it’s part of your race kit!)
December 31: Resolution Run (THIS ONE IS A MUST!! I REALLY WANT TO DO THIS!)

So, if you’re in the area and would like to join me, please let me know if you plan on doing any of these runs, maybe we could meet up for a picture or just high fives.

Even if you’re not in the area, I wish you well in your runs and races coming up! 🙂
Happy Running!

Like this:

For those of you following who’s in the US or Canada, I hope you’re enjoying the last long weekend of the summer. For those everywhere else, I hope you’re enjoying the weekend even if it is just a regular weekend for you.

I am off to a good start, run today and some weights. We will see what tomorrow brings. My back/left side is in a lot of pain right now. I’m not sure if it is due to the lack of stretching today or maybe I messed up with the weights today, but I’m in a lot of pain! I mean, sitting here not moving hurts! I don’t think it’s all from weights or lack of stretching because my side was already hurting when I was running today. The run wasn’t very tough, very hot yes but the pain was there for quite some time running. I tried stretching a lot while running but I guess that didn’t help. I got it massaged a little bit after working out too and that felt like it made the pain subside but once I stood up the pain started all over again. What’s up with this? I feel like walking is impossible! Sorry I’m just rambling and complaining about this pain but I really hope it goes away before laser tag tomorrow. I’m ready to zap down some kids! Haha.

Only 15 days left to the Terry Fox 10k! I am definitely not ready. Ideally I should have completed 10k now and start tapering down…. What taper?! I still haven’t hit 10k straight in a while, let alone 5! It’s a good thing this isn’t a competition instead it is about getting out there and doing something good. I will definitely train harder so I can one day hit a half marathon. I keep saying it’s the heat that’s keeping me back but it’s probably the humidity and stuffiness. Today’s run was 30% owe my side hurts, keep running, 65% focus on your breathing, steady, innnnnn, out, innnnnn, out, and 5% oh look at that over there or not thinking at all: the best thing and greatness in running – when you don’t even realize you’re running anymore and just loving life.

Like this:

I don’t even know where the rest of last week went after my last blog. Time just flew by with work.

August 26 Run: 31:42 minutes, 4.05 km, 7’50″/km

This was an awfully tough run. It was humid and muggy which means it was just that much harder for me to breathe. I am definitely still struggling with my breathing. It’s tough. Mentally, I thought I had 5k in the bag. From the start I felt aches and pains in spots I’ve never felt. Run them off, so I thought but the run back was just a struggle that stopping at 4 was a decision to protect myself from pushing myself too hard and risking an injury.

My thoughts through the run today were muffled by just focussing on my breathe and trying to find the right rhythm and getting enough air in. Mostly my thoughts would wander back to, am I running for time or running for a distance? Do I run and walk or run slower at a steady pace? I have been reading a lot on running this last year and have read articles that support and bash both of these topics. Which is it? Do I run to hit a certain distance or do I run to hit a specified time? Do I walk in-between? The more I thought and continue to think about this, does it matter? I’m running, that’s all that matters! Just keep running until I can’t run anymore!!! What about you? What do you set your running goals to?

I did not achieve the 10k distance today but the week isn’t over. It was a struggle to even get to 5. I broke my run up between the first five kilometers and the last three. Thought I was going to throw up a couple of times, luckily I didn’t. The success of tonight’s run is I tried a route I go by every day and think about those other runners I see, “Boy, I’m glad I don’t run this was, that hill up and down looks killer, and I’d have to do that once to pass it and another to get back home!” Well, as challenging as today’s run has been, I succeeded in running straight through the hill both times!! No walking! Woohoo! Oh and it’s the first time in a very long while since I’ve broken the 5k mark. A lot of work to get up to 10k again before September 15!

Anyways, keeping it short and sweet tonight, I hope you’ve been staying more active than I.

Remember, if you haven’t checked it out yet, please take a look at my Fundraiser or spread the word for me!

I’ve got brand new DC Shoes and they are new to this season!! Signature series DC Nyjah’s (size 10.5), Mike Mo’s (size 11), and Chris Cole (size 12) Shoes! All Brand new, with the box, and I’m taking bids! Or maybe a night out at the movies for two with two drinks and a popcorn to share?

At the end of the bidding, I will notify the winner who can pay in Cash, Cheques, e-Transfers, or direct donation (credit card or secured through PayPal) to the Platinum Stars will be accepted. All Shipping will be covered by me if I can’t get the product to you locally.

Please help me Spread the word!!

If you are not interested but may have some friends who could be, please send this to them, pin it or post it to your Instagram, Pintrist, Facebook, Twitter, etc. I need your help to raise money!! I’m not just asking for money but will ship you product for it and it’s all for a good cause.

I know I am grasping at straws here as I haven’t received much interest in my community but the blogging, running, and online community has never cease to amaze me. Please help spread the word! Maybe your kids or your friends would be interested? You never know what pinning this or sharing this Auction could do.

I know I’m blogging twice today but I just finished a run and I couldn’t NOT blog.

August 15 Run: 40:14 minutes, 5.31 km, 7’34″/km

A bit of experimentation going on today. Tried a different route in the neighbourhood with less elevation. Run felt MUCH better than the previous and I did it non-stop.

The real reason I am writing is that today I posted my new charity up and have already received great response (The Terry Fox Foundation – “Running” for a Cause). I am lost for words with some of the amazing donations I have received in product for my SILENT AUCTION, monetary, and emotional support. If you haven’t had a chance to check out the Auction, please do. Even if you bid 10% of the value, you could win and I’d be ecstatic to have some more funds go towards the cause. Note a typo on the Auction form: If you win, you can pay in credit card – not just Visa. I will also cover all shipping costs.

Short and sweet as I hope you get to spend time reading my earlier post from the day.

I wrote about this event over a year ago to be my goal to achieve. It’s now official, I’m signed up and fully in fundraising mode!

On September 15, 2013, I will be taking part in the Terry Fox Run in its ongoing work to fund innovative and progressive cancer research programs. I very much hope you will consider joining the team (if you’re in Canada) or making a donation in support of my effort, confident in the knowledge that your kindness will impact the lives of so many people living with cancer.

This is a Walk, Run, or Wheel event with various distances (depending on the location). I encourage you to join our team, Platinum Stars and walk, run, or wheel to a better future. Distances range from 1k to +10k. A 5K walk takes on average less than an hour and less than 12 minutes to walk 1K. There are so many locations available across Canada: Burlington, Niagara on the Lake, St. Catherine’s, Hamilton x 3, Oakville, Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton, and many more. You can sign up for an event in your local community but be part of the Platinum Stars!! There is no entry fee or minimum donation required. This is not a timed event. This is simply to raise money, awareness, and come together for a greater cause.

Whatever your ability, do this not only for yourself but for those in need. Spare 12 minutes or an hour of your time for a healthier future for you and those around you. If you’d prefer not to participate, please click here and make a donation to support the team.

In the words of Terry, “If you’ve given a dollar, you are part of the Marathon of Hope .”

Terry Fox ran across Canada – ask any Canadian, he did it! Although the evidence suggest that he may not have completed his personal race, his spirit and determination has been ingrained into Canada and I believe Terry Fox completed his Marathon a day across Canada. A true Canadian Icon, Terry Fox has an amazing story; If you’d like to learn more about Terry Fox or The foundation please visit the LEARN MORE page. He was who I wrote my grade 3 Canadian Hero report on and I couldn’t be happier that each of you do support me on each of my journeys to help others. I am also ecstatic that I have made it this far in a year with your support and encouragement from not running at all to running 10K to support The Terry Fox Foundation.

For any donors or participants, I will be doing a raffle for prizes to everyone who’s contributing!!

Brand new items up for grabs in my new Silent Auction in efforts to raise funds includes: a West 49 Gift Card, Movie Passes, Nixon TPS Speaker, Red Star Deck, DC Shoes, a few Long Boards, etc. Check Out theSILENT AUCTION PART 1 HERE!! More items to come shortly!! PLEASE START BIDDING OR DONATING!! 🙂

Thank you to everyone who has supported me and continue to support me by following my blog, liking my posts, encouraging me to run, donating to the auction, donating to the charities I am raising awareness for, and believing in me!!

“It took cancer to realize that being self-centered is not the way to live. The answer is to try and help others.” – Terry Fox

It’s Tuesday and I’m blogging! What? I got out and did a run on a Tuesday night, woohoo! Finally pushed myself after work, dinner, and off the couch!

August 6 Run: 39:15 minutes, 5.22 km, 7’30″/km
Today’s run was amazing! I never stopped to walk once today. I kept a steady comfortable pace and sped up or slowed down when I felt, but constantly pushing. Best run in a very long time. God was testing me for sure. i stepped outside and it started spitting. I didn’t turn around and walk up the drive way, I said, fine, I guess I will run in the rain instead. I went out with the intentions of doing 3k then changed my mind to 4k and ended up doing 5k! Could this be because I did the run at night? Who cares! I feel great!

I’d also love to thank everyone for their support. I know I keep saying it but I truly mean it. Your comments mean a lot, likes, and follows. Thank you for everything!

I am definitely loving life as I had a pretty rough day at work today. I feel like this is déjà-vu and the same time last year I let the same work problems get to me. It’s not so much work because I do love what I do, but the people… There are quite a few who are dedicated and love the culture we are in and have a passion for our company, but then there are obviously the ones who are there for a pay-cheque and just don’t fit in. It does get to me how some people can make it through a job when they blatantly don’t care. I won’t rant too much because it has flown on and I’ve left it outside with my footprints.

Today is a new week and today I take a provisional run. I’m away next Saturday and the chances that I wake up early to run at the cottage are slim to none. I’d also like to clock in a few more runs this week and get myself out of the once a week ritual.

August 4 Run: 39:19 minutes, 5.02 km, 7’50″/KM

WOAH! That’s some slow running but I did get through 5K and I’m super happy and proud of myself for that. My first KM was again my best at 6:46. Then it went all downhill from there, not literally through, I WISH! Literally, it was all uphill from there. These new paths I’m running have a lot of challenges for someone who is accustomed to flat runs. I never thought it would impact me so much, but it is tough! I’ve learned to try to think or focus on anything else when I get to an incline and just think step-step-step-left-right-left-right-etc. until I feel the path isn’t so challenging. I’m not making excuses for my slower times but this new neighbourhood has got me working that much harder! Any-who, it wasn’t too bad, I ran 1 KM, walked 1 minute, ran another KM, walked a minute until I was done the distance goal I had set.

Who cares what the pace is? I read that yesterday. It’s true, Pace is relative and I will set a realistic and challenging goal for myself each run. Whether it is to run 30 minutes or to run 5K, my goal is my focus. Pace is my own standard and not a comparison. I am at awe with all the other blogs and runners I am catching up on. I truly appreciate each and every one of you for reading my blog and sharing your stories. Your support and openness helps me be a better me. Thank you!

So, that’s two runs in two days, wohoo! Go Me!! I’ve also done a bit of off-road exercising with some dumbbells as well; yay, strength!

What a shocker, another week another single run. I’m not disappointed though, I had a great few days off last weekend: one run, relaxed, cleaned the house, went to the Canadian Open, and enjoyed life. I have started making changes in my life again as I slipped and started eating what I wanted but tooooo much of it. It’s not about dieting, but it’s about moderation. Why do I need to eat a large bag of chips in one sitting, I don’t! Or an entire bag of gummy bears? I don’t! So, it’s time to go back to portioning my eating, like a small bowl of chips for one sitting, not the entire bag, or paying more for smaller portions (i.e. candy packages) to limit my consumption.

August 3 Run: 30:38 minutes, 4.01 km, 7’38″/KM

Okay, so it seems a little slower and a little less than 5 K, a whole KM shorter! But today’s plan was to run and meet a friend at a location where he would have his car. I got there at around 3.5 km and had to run up and down the street until I hit 4 KM then called it quits. My next run will have to be 5 K, I find that’s a great point to always achieve. With walking in between, I will get my 30 minutes of exercise in but also a distance that I can be completely proud of. Of course 4 KM is HUGE for a beginner runner… How long can I keep calling myself a beginner? It’s been over a year of steady on off running so I really am just a runner. I want to run more!!

They say money can’t buy happiness and I beg to differ. The image above sums it up. If I had money, I could work whenever I want and run whenever I want. I would have time to cook healthier meals instead of opting for fast food and pre-made meals. If I had money, I could buy more awesome running related product which is kind of happiness because I love that stuff… So, this might make me seem shallow or very materialistic to some but come on, you have to admit, when you get that awesome new shirt, all you want to do is take off the tags, put it on, and go for a run! You Run with this new shirt on with pride and somehow, you seem to go just that little bit faster on your first run with it, YOU ARE UNSTOPPABLE! It happens to all of us, we get caught up in the things associated to what we love. We love to run and so we are consumed by the materials that surround running. What’s my point here? I just wish I had a bit more time!! Not necessarily money but more time and well, we all know Time is Money.

I am off from work today and tomorrow! Needed to take a mini vacation and here we are.
July 25 Run: 38:09 minutes, 5.01 km, 7’37″/km

I’d like to say this time off has been off to a wonderful start. Already got out for one run, hopefully another before Monday. Seems I am off to a great start on my runs in my new neighbourhood and then taper off. Stupid hills. My first km today was 6:06!!! It’s been a while since I’ve run at that pace but of course, I slowed down once the hills hit. I also ran at intervals today. 6 minute on, 1 walk, 5 run, 1 walk, then a series of 3 minute running and 1 minute walking until I hit 5 k at 38 minutes.

Some other greatness to share; my chest did not hurt the last two runs. This could be due to the inhaler or the heat wave leaving us. Or maybe it’s a combination of two. I still can’t breathe very well in terms of getting big enough breathes in so I’m struggling with huffing and puffing but the pain is gone, so that’s really good news for me! Super excited to run some more!!

I’ve also signed up for my next 10k and my charity, I’ll be posting about it more later one once I get some more info.

Here we are again, a week later and I’ve finally been able to clock in my me time to run.

As challenging as running is for me, it is still my favorite pastime.

July 21 Run: 36:03 min, 4.78 km, 7’34″/km

The run was sooooo much better. A good 17 degrees Celsius feeling like 23 only this morning. I can breathe again!! Sort of.. I used the inhaler and felt a bit better. No record speeds but did get a longer distance in this time around. I had a great run, 20 minute run, 2 minute walk, 6 minute run, 1 minute walk, 3 minute run, 1 minute walk, and 3 minute run. Then a big cool off walk after. Felt amazing!!! I’d also like to give a shout out to runrchatts for coming out and following my pace, you’re awesome!

What a beautiful Saturday morning it is here! I thought it was a lot cooler but it’s actually just the lack of humidity. It is 23°C and feels like 28. I still got out there, even if I chose to wear kapris instead of shorts… silly me…

July 13 Run: 21:43 minutes, 3.06 km, 7’05″/km

Wohoo, my speed went up a little bit from the last two runs but maybe that’s because I did a short run and it wasn’t so humid. 3K sounds like nothing compared to what I was able to push myself to so that is disappointing to feel that 3 kilometres has already kicked my butt! I am happy that I did go and run and that I can still get 3k under my belt. It’s better than 0!

It’s tough thinking I am running once a week. I envy each of you for running every day or multiple times a week – most of you have kids, a family, and I’m sure a much busier life than I. My town-house is still yet to be completed with the cleaning. There is just so much to do, it’s never ending. Not to mention work has been extremely busy and I’ve had to put in a couple work nights and will be working a little bit over the weekend as well. This coming week won’t get any better with how busy work will be but I am excited to be out for another run soon! Getting out and moving is really what matters at the moment.

Back to running. I finally picked up the inhaler… but FORGOT to use it before my run as the doctor recommended. I felt like there was something I was missing all morning when I was getting ready but thought, Shoes, Watch, Music, Gum, I’m good! Less than half a km away from home, I start working on regulating my breathing and realize I forgot to use the inhaler. Of course at this point I’ve already done my warm up walk and began running, I didn’t want to turn back. Maybe I’ll remember next run and I’ll be able to breathe better!!

I’m enjoying life and enjoying the company I have ❤
I am hoping to find more time to enjoy more of the things I love, run, golf, and read.

On a side note, for all you ladies out there, what do you work out in? I’ve been set on kapris (slim fit) but now that the summer is hot, I need shorts. I’ve tried many shorts. I have tried what you say are running shorts (built in undies and loose fiiting), and I have some longer tight shorts above the knee. Here’s my problem, I have meaty thighs (which is why I need to run more!). The tights are too tight around my thighs at the edge where the sewing is (they taper in too much for skinny people). The running shorts ride up my hoo-haa when I start running (my meaty thighs rub together and pull the shorts up in the middle), so I’m left pulling them down every two seconds. Is there nothing made for me??? I can’t go with tight shorts in a larger size because they start falling down my hips. I can’t go for running shorts in a larger size so that there’s length because they start falling down my hips. I know most runners have this ideal body type but I know a lot of you are just like me, beginner and trying to get in shape. How do you dress for these hot days and you’re being physical?

I may be an occasional runner right now, but don’t you worry, I have not broken up with running, never! ❤

I’m a little lost for words today… I haven’t even started my run plan yet…

July 7 Run: 30:16 min, 3.69 km, 8’11″/km I couldn’t run…

I couldn’t breathe.. My stomach/lungs were clenched.. RunRChatts wanted to get out there today so I went with him… Bad choice for me sleeping in because when he showed up ready, I rolled out of bed, changed, chugged down some water and ate a few energy chews and off I went. I dragged held him back for about 1.5 kms (a little lost in the new neighbourhood) and he went off and cycled back to me later on. From that point on, I did 2 minute run and 1 minute walk until I hit 30 minutes. Could it be the humidity today? It’s 26°C, feels like 35 with 73% humidity.

It seems that mentally I get super motivated and then somehow I get discouraged and end up doing nothing. Mostly, there’s no excuse, it’s just accepting that I’m lazy. WHY?

So, I’m disappointed with myself for dying for the summer to come so I wouldn’t have to run on the treadmill… Summer is here and I don’t want to leave my couch. What’s going on and why can’t I fight this heat?

I was definitely too optimistic when I wanted to sign up for every run possible this summer. I struggle getting myself out the door in this heat. Especially when there’s no sun and it’s this hot!

We were planning to run 5k and I couldn’t even get to 4. On the plus side, I did just get out there and move. Although the running was quite slower than any of my other runs I can ever remember, I did run.

What do you do to stay motivated in this heat???

I hope you’re having better luck than I with your relationship with running!!I know it’s not luck, it’s your dedication and willpower that keeps you going!!! Keep it up!! Thanks for reading, you’re and inspiration to me!!!!

Yes, I’m here and alive!!! I don’t even know where to start. I’ll start with the run. FINALLY, after over a month I picked up my lazy butt and went for a run. It wasn’t a far run but it was great and challenging nonetheless.

June 29 Run: 27:15 min, 3.5 km, 7’46″/km

I couldn’t end this month with not running once! I had big hopes to run a lot of KMs this month, beat my May total (I’ve increased my total runs/kms each month since January), and run on my birthday but that fell through 😦 … Well despite all the slacking I got out today and that’s all that matters. My GPS watch didn’t pick up a signal so the KMs is based on my footpod, I don’t think the distance is too far off. I had to walk at 2 km and 3 km just to give my breath a moment to catch itself. The new neighbourhood is quite peaceful and quiet. Not as many runners compared to where I was before but hopefully I start spotting more the more I get out there.

Regarding my breathing and allergies, I’ve seen a doctor and I’ve received an inhaler but I have not gone to pick it up yet. He said that allergies have been extremely high this year too so that could also affect me since I sneeze at basically everything! Hopefully, once I get this inhaler, I can regulate my breathing better and run MUCH MUCH MUCH faster.

My plan is to follow an 8 K Program. I’ll post this later on once I actually begin it. The plan is to run 8 km in 50 minutes. That is standard but apparently it’s going to be very difficult for me. That’s cutting almost 2 minutes per km!!! That’s huge!! But, I had the initial plan to run 5 km in 30 minutes so this plan will hopefully get me there! And you know what, If I don’t get to that average runner speed, who cares?! I’m out there running and doing something I love that’s good for me! 😀

I’ve finally hooked up my computer today and it doesn’t seem to want to cooperate. I’m now settled into my new home but there is still a lot of work to get done. There’s dirty dishes, dirty floors, dirty laundry, dirty bathrooms, etc. I’m sure you get the point. But with all of this in my life, it’s nothing new. YOU, fellow runner/athlete/blogger, find time to do what you love most! Why can’t I?! It’s time to stop being lazy and prioritize!!

I went a little AWOL on running in the last month but no more! I may have taken a break but don’t think I quit on you! Running world, I am back and I will keep at it! You know, you’re a runner when every morning heading into work, I would get extremely sad seeing all the runners. All I did was wish, why can’t I make time?! Why am I so lazy right now?! Excuses no more, running, I am here to stay!!

I would like to share with you that in the last month I have not been completely slacking. I’ve found a new love in Golf. I grew up always interested but never really tried it out. This sport actually requires a lot more physical fitness than you may think. I’ve chosen to spend some time at the driving range over running and well, I need to balance my schedule out a little better. This month, I played my first 18 holes and loved it. I love both golf and running and I will make time for both! Running will only improve my game! 🙂

SOOOOOO.. I’m a little frustrated as this computer doesn’t seem to want to be working. I keep typing and my computer keeps crashing. I’ve lost this a couple of times and a few paragraphs have not been restored. Hopefully I covered all the key things I wanted to… There’s so much more to share with you and so many blogs I need to get caught up on. I hope you’ve been doing better than I and kept up with your passions in life. Until my next run, enjoy your life!!

The first few kms were brutal! I couldn’t breathe right, my body was aching, my mind just wasn’t in it. After a while though, I got into it. I planned on only running 5km but ended up doing 7.5! Although my pace was much slower than my average, I ran!!

Thank you runrchatts for coming out and pushing me to run. It’s been difficult to get out and run since I feel guilty for going out running when I haven’t finished cleaning/packing. But, I have also felt pretty bummed out for NOT running. I miss running. I move this coming weekend! No, I’m not quite packed yet… I keep packing but it seems to be endless. I am excited to get in the new neighbourhood and explore new trails and routes!! I’m dying to be able to run more again!!

Until next run, I hope you all enjoy this fine Sunday/Monday for those of you on the other side of the world. 🙂

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I haven’t blogged since my 10k Race last Sunday because I haven’t been out for a run. I went for a run yesterday!

May 19 Run: 43:52, 6.16 km, 7’07″/km

This week I let go and ate everything I craved and wanted… Well almost everything, I didn’t cave and have poutine or any of the other really bad foods I love. Pizza, chips, candy, and much more was in the mix. BUT it’s ok, I run. 🙂

Now, I’ve been really caught up all week with deciding what the next race will be. I want to sign up for all of them in June before it gets too hot but I am busy packing and moving. I want to make time to train but I also don’t want to stress myself out too much. I’ll decide when the time comes closer to the races… I feel like I’m addicted to races already! I keep looking them up and I’ve even written down all the options for June on a calendar. I don’t want to be overcommitted either…

Here’s the craziest thing… Last year, completing 10k would have been out of this world for me to complete before the September plan, but I did it in May, 4 months earlier! I would have never thought 10k would be so fun. But here I am…. Craving to finish this years’s races so I can train for a half marathon. Did I just really say this?! I think so. I’ve been dabbling with the idea ever since finishing the 10k last week. I WANT to finish a half marathon! I may be slow, but I will finish! 🙂

So what’s really next? A lot of running, I will make time. Packing, moving, and settling in a new home. Run some more. Sign up for some fun runs. Start my fundraising for the Terry Fox Foundation. Decided on which 10k to run in September (Terry Fox fun run or Toronto Zoo Run-timed). Maybe begin training for a half marathon for 2014?

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Happy Mother’s Day to all you readers! You’re all very special and cherished. I had the privilege to take my mom out for a lovely lunch today after my 10K race. Although exhausted from being awake at 4:30 am, I made it rough, inhaled some awesome vermicelli, and spent some time with my momma. Great day!

Now that I’m home and a bit more rested, I can tell you all about the big race!

May 12 Sporting Life 10k Race: 1:11:11, 10.30 km, 6’54″/km

This day started extremely early with needing to wake up and shower (yes, shower before a race to wake me up), eat, digest, and get myself to the race. Thankfully I went to bed early and got a decent amount of rest. Weather was horrible, somewhere around 6°C but felt more like 2°C… I didn’t mind until about an hour into the wait and my toes were going numb. I met up with two fellow teammates before the run, wished them luck and lined up in our respective corrals. We missed the other three members; it’s tough finding three people in a sea of over 27,000! One of our runners is injured so he didn’t run today. I did get to see everyone from the team who ran at the end. I came last in my team but I am super stoked with my personal best! Huge shout outs to runrchatts on the team who also achieved his personal best today too! You’re awesome, thank you for all of your help training me!

The event was a bit confusing… I lined up just because I read online and have been to a race before but there wasn’t any real announcement I could hear, maybe I was too far back? We had no clue if the elites had started or not. Half an hour later we started moving towards the start. Off I went. I avoided the first water station… Originally to be at the 3k, it appeared at the 4k… It was a disaster! No water on the first five tables, just a mess.. The last two had a few poor kids trying to pour and hand water as fast as they can. I relied on my Nike fuel belt. At 6 and 8 k i had a couple gummies – Honey Stingers from one of my coworkers/running mates who had given me earlier in the week. Not sure if they helped but they didn’t slow me down. I did pick up water for a few sips at 7 k as I was running low on my belt. I ran on… On and on and on… Actually, it didn’t feel all that long! I was hoping to have had a pace bunny to follow but there were none… I ran all on my own today, no partner, just my watch and iPod to keep me focused and on track.

Crazy enough, this was an amazing run for me! I had this insane kick at the end for the last 400 meters where I ran up to 4’47″/km! I am disappointed as I could have started my kick much earlier! I had so much fuel left… Oh well. I’ll know better next time. Yes, I will definitely do another 10K! Besides, this one was all downhill, and it was an extra 300 m. I also ran without the ugly run face. Satisfied with my challenging yet comfortable pace I was running. I felt happy and confident.

I felt great this run! I was content and just floated on. I coast by the run… Maybe that’s a hint that I was not fast enough for myself, but I did keep checking my watch to make sure I wasn’t going too fast, to tire myself out, or too slow, to finish at my 1 hour 14 minute goal. I beat that goal and I finished the race without walking!

There was a LOT of self talk this run but a lot of good talks… Well.. Chants… Each time I got a little bit discouraged by losing the runner I was following pace with (or seeing that I was running at the same speeds walk/runners were), I had to keep telling myself, THIS IS MY RUN! and THIS IS MY RACE! And I did just that, I ran for me and raced myself. Everyone around was just an obstacle on the street and a distraction to look at, not a competitor.

Woohoo! More collectables for my shoe box!

I got my medal, water, bananas, and met up with the team. Took a few photos and tried to get myself warmed up ASAP! Of course I warmed up from the running but standing around down by Lake Ontario gets cold quick when wind gusts are huge and a storm is rolling in. Hail started hitting shortly in the day, luckily I had found my way to my mom’s already.

Most importantly, our team raised money for Camp Ooch. As a team we have raised $1163!!!! A little shy of sending a child to camp for an entire week, but we did hit over 5 days! I hope some kid(s) really enjoys their time! 🙂
Thank you to everyone who has helped support this cause, support me, and volunteer at the event!!!

I am super excited to start my next fundraising initiative and sign up for more races!!

Today marks 1 year since I went for my first run. It would have been awesome if my friend could have joined me who pushed me (we pushed each other) to run. As mentioned, she’s been injured so I ran the same route we did last year as a tribute (+1 km).

Can you believe it? I can’t! So, how far have I really come?

Last year I died trying to accomplish 3 km and this year… I still struggled! But that’s okay, this year, I ran the entire time without having to walk so that’s a great improvement!!! I do have to say, I went into this thinking I would run the lap we did around the block twice, but that was out of question after the first km, my legs were BURNING! So… No more running until the big 10k this Sunday!

I still weigh the same (or slightly heavier..) but at least I’m doing something that I’m passionate about and is healthy for me!!

In the past year, I’ve found a new me, a new love, a new outlook. Despite what others may not see as any changes, I am a happier person. I’d be happier if I could just shed a few pounds instead of gaining constantly but I’ll give it some more time. Besides, I still want to have my chicken wings and pizza! Mmmmm…. Wish I had some right now!

I’ve come so far, I’ve invested a lot of money into running gear that I would have never thought I’d need. Let me tell you, running isn’t as cheap as some people make it out to be. I’ve even gone so deep and started trying energy bars for pre and post runs to make sure I get the nutrients I need. I’ve spent money on a new pair of shoes, GPS watch, a Nike fuel band, a hydration belt, running clothes, the previously mentioned power bars, and so far down to hair elastics and pins. I’m sure I’ve spent much more on many other things but I’m not too worried, if it’s motivation to keep me going, I’ll take it!

Every run I run for me but every run I run for a cause and am always reminding myself to never stop and keep going for those who wished they could. I will always run to better my health but I will do what I can to help wherever I can.
I know I am not the fastest, nor am I progressing as fast as many other female runners I read about… Sometimes I am at awe by the stories I read and wonder, I was never that big so why does it seem so much harder for me? Maybe I need to push harder this summer and not fall off during fall/winter. I will set new goals and work harder!

Discovering the online blog community, falling for the running family, following inspirational blogs, and receiving your support has meant the world to me. You fuel my runs.

I feel I have lived this past year to the fullest, learned a lot from it, and grown to become better. I’m sure there are points I am missing that may be key to my past year, but all that matters is I continue to lace up and run! 🙂

Unfortunately, a little slower than my last. A bit disappointed because I am not completely drained but I also didn’t have enough willpower to kick it in the end either… despite it all, it’s okay, I ran! I was running with a hydration belt with two 6oz bottles. Extremely annoying! I tried this as practice for the 10k since there are only two water stations: 3 and 7 km. I don’t think I can wear it. The bottles bounce up and down way too much. I don’t want to run holding, carrying, or strapping anything either. I feel like I’m out of options. What do you do for hydration during longer runs?

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It’s a gorgeous Sunday afternoon here as I blog from my balcony soaking up the sun.

I did it! I got the Nike+ Sportwatch GPS. I ran with it today and beat my last 5K best of 2013 by almost 30 seconds! Since I now have this GPS watch, my run recap line will feature date, time, distance, and pace. I’m so happy to finally have something I can rely on! To those who commented/sent me info, Thanks for the feedback on your GPS watch. I know running is just going out and running but I like having goals set and measurable results to get me to improve.

May 5 Run: 33:54, 5K, 6’43″/km

I am having a bit of trouble syncing my watch instead of my iPod to get my true results (I ran with my Nano to have music and as a back up). Nike is working on helping me fix this right now so hopefully I’ll have what I’m looking for. I basically started my run at around a 6’24” pace. This is pretty darn fast for me. At around 2.5 km in, I was at 6’30” but somewhere I dropped off down to 7 minutes a km! This isn’t so bad, that’s still pretty darn fast for me. I’m hoping I can see my run on Nike+ soon: their dashboard shows a map and traces out your pace. I’m interested in seeing where I slowed down since the entire run I thought I had kept a steady pace.

It has dawned on me that my runs earlier this year were tracking my warm ups and cool down walks which could be what’s making my average pace seem so much slower for those first few months. I do not want this to be a negative and have it take away from my results now. I am still running faster, better, and smarter than I was 4 months ago.

Can you believe it, it’s May already! Running is no longer a task to becoming thin, it’s a life long goal and passion for me to continue because it makes me better, makes me a healthy and happy me. Almost one year ago I went for my first run with a dear friend. Unfortunately, she’s been injured since but still cheers me on. Although I took a bit of a break at the end of last year, this doesn’t change the fact that I’ve found a new Love in my life and I am very happy to be bonded with such a great community who share the same passion as I.

I love you running, I love you runners, and I love you for reading my blog.

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Yesterday, I went for a run on my lunch break at work. It was great in the 21°C sun! Something about the weather just makes me happy and my body soaks up the energy!

April 3 Run/Fartlek: 19:16, 1.86 miles / 3 km (2.78 on Nike+)

This fun run, I tried something called fartleks… I’ve been trying to understand the difference between all the different training techniques and ways to improve. I found a very great article that breaks down the difference between fartleks, tempo runs, intervals, hills, etc. check it out if you need some guidance or clarification on different ways to run: The Runner’s Building Blocks. This was actually very helpful as I just never understood the lingo in running or what was different between tempo and interval runs. I’m not quite 100% sure I get it, but I get what fartleks are and I tried it out yesterday.

My goal was to run 3 km, no other goals. After running for a bit I decided I’d try this fartlek that I read about. I set trees and streets as markers of when I would run hard and where I would slow down. I did this a couple times making sure I gave myself enough of a “easy” pace between each burst. I’m not sure if what I am doing is “right” but as long as I’m running and not hurting myself, it’s perfect! 🙂 I did find this online as well to help describe a fartlek run:
I really enjoyed this run even if it wasn’t for the fun fartleks. The beautiful weather, my breathing, and pace was all pretty good. I also can’t complain since my pace is picking up when I run during the daytime, less than 7 min per km again! I’m a day person, I know this, I just never put it together with running until now.

I’m going to run a few more times this week during lunch before the race next Sunday. Yes, it’s next Sunday!! I’m excited for this one to be over so I can have that 10k under my belt and start signing up for more races…probably in the 5k region though.

Any-who, time to enjoy the weekend! I hope you have a wonderful weekend yourself!

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My run today was short and at 11:40 AM. Yes, I got up, changed, and went for a run to kick off my lunch break at work. I don’t normally take lunch breaks but I am going to start! I set a goal to run around a few streets (1 lap). Turns out it was a little over 2 km and no where near long enough; I was hungry for more all afternoon! I also did the run the fastest I have in a while, under 7 minutes per km. I was sweaty getting back to work but felt great. I’m very proud of myself because I haven’t ran the last two nights and kind of regret not running. I love it, I should be doing it more. I will do it more!

May 1 Run: 13:24, 1.3 miles / 2.1 km (not sure what my Nile+ even said before I updated to the correct distance)

That’s a personal best for 2013!!! Hard run! I’ve never run where I had no kick left at the end. I kept pushing harder and harder at the end but my legs just wouldn’t go any faster.

Huge thanks again to runrchatts for pacing me and pushing me to be better! It’s hard to believe I may have been running at least a minute per km faster almost a year ago… I’m still thinking because my Nike iPod is wrong, those stats aren’t too accurate… Although I am 10 lbs heavier, I could be a minute slower due to this fact.

By the end of this year I want toplan on finish 5K in less than 30 minutes.

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Yes, it is still morning and I’ve already been out for a run, I think it’s time to hit the sack as I’ve completed my goals for the day. Ha, yeah right! There’s still laundry and cleaning at bay!

April 27 Run: 46 minutes, 3.73 miles (6km, 6.42 km on Nike+)

Today’s run time consisted of ONLY my run time, no warm up or cool down. Luckily, I was able to get to run with runrchatts again today. Without him, I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t have run in the morning. THANK YOU! 😀 He was only free for the morning so that’s why I ran in the morning. Oh and as I blog, he’s still out running now!!

We got outside and I told him today I wanted to do 6 km, I have no other plans other than to just run and finish 6km. We did 6 km straight but it was a struggle for me. After 1/4 of a km I was already exhausted and wanted to stop. I felt really bad about the slow pace I was going as I could tell it was too easy for rchatts. At 1.5, 2.5, 3.5, 4.5, and 5.5 km, I noticed how hard it was for me to breathe. I like running with rchatts because he has his GPS on his armband which is next to the side I run on; so every time I catch up to him, I’m able to see the true distance since my Nike+ App is wrong on my iPod Nano. I was panting for air every time but the run was worth it. It was 46 minutes of straight running, that’s only 3.2% of my day! Sounds so insignificant to the overall when it does so much for the bigger picture.

Breathing is still a struggle for me on some days and today was horrible. It has to come…. My breath is just not there… there’s something blocking my lungs and I can feel my body stopping my breathes from going down my throat. What’s my problem? I’ve tried doing breathing exercises while I’m not running, focussing on my breathe as much as I can but very little improvement has come. Do you have any suggestions?

GPS RUNNING WATCH: Do you wear a running watch of some sort? Do you have a GPS watch? What do you run with? Please share and provide me with your feedback on your product of choice or even negative feedback on others. I’m contemplating getting the Nike+ GPS Watch but I’ve heard Garmin is really good (just pricey). I would really appreciate any insight from you as I really want to be able to keep track of my own progress when I run on my own.

It’s going to be a beautiful weekend, I hope you get outside and enjoy it! 🙂

Just a side note, we are all runners. I’ve found it offensive when people say I jog or ask if I’m going for a jog. I don’t quite know why. Maybe it’s because every time I run, I am RUNNING.Even if my all is slower than the norm, I give it my all. I am not a jogger.

My body has been tired since Monday’s 10k run. I felt tired still today but forced myself to run. I’ve gained three pounds this week from bad food choices, I had to run! Tonight’s run consisted of a 5 minute walk, 20 minute run, then a series of 1 minute light running at 4-5 mph and 1 minute runs with the runs speeding up to 6 mph (my average challenging pace is 5 mph)! I had wanted to stop after 5 minutes of running, then 10… Then I just kept setting another 5 minute mark. Then I realized, I can’t stop until I hit 5K as I told my VP at work today that I would run tonight if he did. I have to keep my integrity, which is what I did! I just made 5K on the 40 minutes I set on the treadmill, whew! Luckily, tonight, I had Eminem to push me through and get lost in the moment with.

I’m not too tired now. My body has just been malnourished and stuffed with junk this week. I’m nervous but excited for the 10K. I want to finish that and start planning for more runs. I’d like to do more 5K runs and can’t wait to sign up for some!

The real stats to look at today is this: 10 km in 1 hour and 15 minutes, nonstop running for 75 full minutes, and basically, my longest and furthest run to date. Booyah!!

We started with a 5 minute walk and ran for 10K without stopping and then walked a slow 5 minutes to cool down. Luckily, I talked runrchatts into running with me today. I felt a little guilty since he just did a 10K race and PB yesterday, but I needed the running partner. He said he was going to run anyways without me. So, we used his GPS to tell me when I got to 10K so I could stop (my silly Nike+ on my iPod nano doesn’t do well tracking true distance)… THANK YOU FOR RUNNING WITH ME!!!

Oh, I skipped the rest of my running plan because I dread it. I love running but somehow the plan has got me demotivated and there’s 3 weeks now until the race, it’s now or never to do the full 10K. Now I start to wind down my runs towards race day, so excited!! I’ll post modifications of my run plan for any newbies who’d like to follow it later this week.

Anyways, yeah, I ran 10k and I’m proud of it. Yes, I am bragging on here. Yes, I enjoyed doing it! Yes, I am a runner!

Unfortunately, tonight was a treadmill run and a 10K Plan run. I’m finding a lot more enjoyment running outside and loving running a whole lot more when I do it outside. If I’m on a treadmill and I want to run faster so I can finish faster, I have to think too much (what speed am I increasing by, how much time do I knock off of the time set on the treadmill, etc.). The run itself was fairly tough. 5 minute walk followed by three 21 minutes and 36 second run intervals with a 1 minute walk in between and a 5 minute cool down. The first interval was okay and I thought the following two would be just as challenging but manageable; I was wrong. The second one was extremely tough! By the third interval, my ARMS were tired of running. That’s no typo, my arms were actually really tired and didn’t want me to go on anymore. In the end, I finished it and I’m happy I did even though it was hard. I have tried to run the last two nights and ended up going to bed sad I didn’t; but it’s okay now, I ran! 🙂

Advice: NEVER EVER have a spoonful of icing before running… Yes, Betty Crocker icing is one of my many guilty pleasures and I decided to have a spoonful before my run today. Darn my silly sweet tooth! Anyways, the taste of that coming up while running, not so good.

In other great news, I’ve found a new home!!! I’ll be moving in June 1st!!! I don’t know the area very well but it’s a convenient location with many amenities close by. The neighbourhood seems safe to run in, which was key to looking for a new place! I’m very excited to be moving here as it will feel like a real home. It’s a townhouse with a back yard and front yard. No more apartment! Wohoo! 🙂

In addition to that great news, I have even more exciting news: I’ve made my goal of raising $250 for Camp Oochigeas! Thank you to two lovely ladies at work! I am still fundraising so if you’d like to donate a couple bucks, please do so by clicking here or read more here.

This weekend may end up being a rest weekend since I’ll be out of the city and in Toronto to cheer some runners on at the Yonge Street 10k. I’ll be cheering on random strangers but also Runrchatts, I Hate/Love Running, and Eric Y. at the finish line!! I’m super stoked to be in the crowd. I’m definitely jealous that these guys are all getting a medal as I can’t wait to get mine in May! I’ve made a few signs, I’ll only show two for now. Good luck everyone running a race this weekend!!!

Only 3 more weeks until my 10k run!! Wohoo!!! I’m not sure if I’ll be sticking to the plan so much anymore as time is getting too close and I don’t want to over-run. I may start slowing down my runs after another week. Who knows. I’ll just listen to my body and run. 🙂

I am trying to keep my focus to not rant on about how disgusted I am by the recent tragedies and how saddened I am with mankind; I will however blog about running as usual. I would also like to mention how I love the running community, I love how strong and connected all runners are, how this horrific attack will NOT stop any of us from running, and I am thankful to be part of this world as all of your blogs have made me believe that there is still good out there.

I initially had planned on running yesterday. After hearing the news just before leaving work, I was devastated. I got home and all I could do was find anything to follow the story online. I watched every live news feed available. I walked to the corner store, got some junk, and just binged as I watched the news and feel my heart sinking and my mind so lost. Needless to say, running did not happen yesterday.

For those of you that don’t know me, I don’t have access to cable/free TV. Yes, this is by choice! I watch what I like online, commercial free. I read my news through the newspaper and am very selective with that. I try not to stay caught up with the news because I cannot stand the heartbreak. Newspapers don’t celebrate the good in the world as often as reporting on the demons.

….

April 16 Run: 74 minutes, 5.89 (9.48 km, 9.55 km on Nike+)

Anyways, today we ran outside because the weather called for it. It was tough to keep the pace I should as I’m still not capable of regulating my pace to a T. The run wasn’t too hard though. I had runrchatts come out to my neighborhood. He’s great at pacing me but I’m just a slacker. My thighs burned the entire time. My heart felt warm. I thought about a lot and cleared my mind for a while. Dedicated my run, as I knew many others would be, to show my support for all of those in Boston – the runners and all the supporters and heroes. I ran hoping that the father who lost his little boy would one day run again. I ran believing that this is a sick and twisted individual will get what’s coming to him and that the world is good. I ran and stayed calm, much calmer than I felt last night. I prayed in my mind running. I sent my thoughts out. I finished my run.

I’m still a bit lost for words as I feel I can go on about how I just don’t understand, how close this feels, how much this does hurt me and make me sad… But I will not…
My thoughts and prayers are with everyone who has been affected and to every runner in the world.

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Despite the -2°C temperatures this morning, I got outside and ran bright and early. By the time I was done running it was +1°C! Yay! Hahaha… It is a beautiful day out now though 🙂

April 14 Run: 37 minutes, 3.2 miles (5.15km, 5.30km in Nike+)

I’ve been battling this whole training program a little bit, knowing that my runs are getting longer and tougher to build me up to the 10k. Today I wanted to feel how I felt when I first started running, ambitious and in love with the lifestyle. I invited rchatts to come over for a run and he said yes. I had breakfast while I waited. The first thing I did was lay out the plan when we went outside: I’m running the same 5k route I did last September, I don’t care about pace or time, I just want to love running again. It’s not so much I fell out of running but all this focus on long hard runs and training to plan has gotten me a bit disconnected with how much I do love running. That ugly face I had when I did the 5K Harry Rosen run, didn’t exist today and I ran a little more than 5 k in two more minutes. I know if I had focused on time and pace I would have destroyed my personal best, but that wasn’t the goal today.

Today I ran lightly for the first two kilometers. I picked it up until the last 500 m (really 600) and ran my heart out. Finding out there was 100m left to the end mark (5.15km instead of 5! How deceptive), I sprinted! I started at one point and said I would finish at a specific point and I did (despite rchatts ‘ GPS telling me we had already done 5k). I emptied the tank and it felt amazing!

The run was great. I felt comfortable and relaxed most of the time. Breathing was extremely hard as it always is for me. Rchatts was extremely supportive as always, thanks! There were many other runners and walkers out. This is what I love about running. I enjoyed the pace, I enjoyed the scenery, I enjoyed the company and fellow runners/walkers, I enjoyed life.

I know I need to train to get to 10k but I also need to remember to break down my runs into the fun runs that I do enjoy. Ultimately, those long runs will be my fun runs! 😀

So, if you’re struggling getting to where your goals are, just stop thinking about them for a day, shut your brain off, enjoy the beauty of life, tie up your shoes, and just run.

Ok, so I initially wanted to run a short run yesterday and then take two days off before my big run again. That didn’t happen last night, so I had to run my big run tonight. It was tough mentally. Physically I feel like my legs can keep going if I forced them to rut now (despite how sore they felt while I was actually running). I wasn’t mentally fighting the run, I just felt exhausted. I thought about why I just wanted to shut my brain off and pick up a good read or watch some mindless show over running. Quickly I realized it must be from work: a few new analytical reports over the last two days have rendered my brain useless. I have also been stressing out a bit with finding a new place. Running on the treadmill I get nervous that I’m the jerk making all the noise while someone who might need some rest can’t. So, I have less than two months to find a new home, pack, and move. I guess I do need to focus on living a healthy well rounded life to run happier and easier.

Anyways, the run is done and my mind is done. Time for water and a bit of reading then bed.
Cheers!

WOHOOO! My Nike+ actually showed the correct distance I ran today!!! I actually ran indoors on my treadmill since it’s raining pretty hard out. Today’s intervals went as such: 5 minute warm up, and 3 intervals of 20 minutes 24 seconds run with a 1 minute walk in between each interval and ending with a 5 minute walk. Today’s run was supposed to be easy with two rest days since my 5K run on Saturday (more to come in the next paragraphs). The first two intervals weren’t too bad but the last one was challenging: not only was I starting to get the sense that maybe I’m getting bored (because it’s a treadmill and not the beauty of nature), I also felt my toes and my left hamstring starting to tense up and become too tired/sore. I pushed through it and just kept moving on to keep me on pace to doing the 10k in May. Now I may be taking another 2 rest days before doing this run again as I have to do this run another 2 more times before advancing. Let’s see how my legs feel in two days time.

5k Harry Rosen Run: First off, I’d like to send huge thanks to runrchatts for coming out, pacing me, and supporting me for the run! Without you, I wouldn’t have done as well as I did, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Second, this is my Personal Best 5K during a race (I’ve only done two but this is my first chipped race). I did 5KM in 35:04:04…. Yes, 4:04 seconds short of my goal!! I am definitely disappointed with this as I lost about 40 seconds in the last half km due to the race finishing on a hill. They warned us there was a hill… after the 4th KM I thought I hit the hill and mentally got myself up this “hill” for about 500 metres. When we hit the a flat for 100 I was excited the hill was over and I could speed up for the end. Unfortunately, the last 300m was the real hill! I think I got up about 2/3 of the way (but it was probably half) before my legs froze. Honestly, I didn’t think I hit a wall. I thought I had this and fought every part of my body to keep going but somehow my legs just stopped moving. Even walking up the hill seemed impossible at the time. Is this the Wall? Well, I made it. I ran the entire race up to that point (about 31 minutes straight). How did my legs freeze and feel like I was stoned from the waist down? Is this really what the wall is or is this just due to lack of hill training? Anyways, who cares, I hit a personal best which I will surely be beating later this year! Third, after all of that, I would like to assure you that I indeed am proud of myself for running this 5k and completing the race. Forth, I’d like to give a shout out to I Hate/Love Running who also ran this run! We’ve never met and I recently started following his run blog and stumbled across his post about running this same race (but the 8km one)! Congrats on your awesome time. Lastly, who runs when they are cold?! I couldn’t feel my toes for the 1.5 km at least. This was the weirdest feeling! Let’s make note to always stay warm before a run starts!

It may be hard to see, but I’m actually not touching the ground in the photo to the left! This is a photo captured by the event and wants $60 for the actual photo so all I have is a blurry thumbnail to share. I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS PHOTO! I’m almost like the silhouette of the runner in the header of my blog who’s running in thin air over water. If I didn’t have such a miserable face, I may have considered buying this photo. Also, as you can see, runrchatts was always pushing me and cheering me on: even at the end he pushed me to sprint to the finish line to beat him in the last however many feet. Thanks 🙂

Things I’ve learned from this run:
1. I did not know I was the ugly runner! When we first got to the run, the 8k race was just starting so we cheered all the runners on. We watched and hollered for these athletes running their hearts out as I knew I would need that cheering in an hour. We were picking out the runners who made it look too easy and the ones who just looked like they were dying and struggling. Those runners who looked like they hated their lives (I gave them an extra cheer). Turns out, I’m one of those runners! The pictures posted for the results show me as that struggling, angry runner. It looks like I’m tormenting myself. Who knew?
2. When you’re “racing” in a 5k and in the 2nd last coral, you’re not really racing. You’re racing yourself. So my question, why do people find the need to be jerks? I had a girl in her teens elbow by me at around the 3km mark, rchatts had a couple strollers whizz right by him, and I had a few ladies blocking me in. So, the question is why???? We ended up passing the strollers and the ladies with our steady pace and to top it all off, during each of these occurrences, there was a ton of space around us for passing. Anyways, that’s my little rant for the race etiquettes that some people clearly do not care for.
3. In line with the previous note, I am not running these races to compete with the elites. I am competing against myself. This is a sport to me where the goal is to beat myself and be better than I was the day before. Yes, it’d be great to be amazing and #1, but that’s not my goal and that’s not where I plan on heading. This race solidified that thought and just proved that I do want to keep challenging myself to be a better me, not be better than someone else.
4. I want to run more 5k races!! It’s a good time (not too long) and a good challenge! I think the 10k will be tough for me and I’ll still do the 10 K in May and the 10 K Terry Fox Run in September but I definitely want to do many more 5K races!! Despite having the horrible face while I run, I actually do enjoy running! I can’t wait to finish the Sporting Life 10 K race in May and start signing up for more 5K races. I’ve already been looking a bunch up and might even travel to be able to do some.
5. This was a very well organized run! There was a lot of water, food, great energy and just an awesome place to be for runners, supporters, and volunteers. I had a blast just watching all the 8k runners start and finish! I had a blast completing my run. Thank you to everyone involved for putting this together.

I had a pretty exciting and long weekend. Run Saturday Morning, friend’s dinner Saturday night, and celebratory Blue Jays game Sunday. I surprised rchatts with Jays tickets for all of his help with my running and being a great and supportive friend. There wasn’t much celebrating for the Jays since they lost horribly but it was still fun getting out to my first Jays game of the season! I was so tired yesterday I went to work and barely made it through the day but all in all I had a great weekend!

In other news, I’d like to share some awesome information with regards to my efforts to raise money for Camp Oochigeas. Myself and my running team have been working hard to raise money for this charity (if you’d like a refresher, read more about the charity and my goals from my previous post Running for Fun). So, the Penny has been put to rest in Canada. In respect, I had started a Penny Drive around my office for the month of March. I had also mentioned I would match whatever we raised in the office and donate it to one of the fellow members of our team. We raised $43.27 in the office! I have matched that and donated $50 to one of our other runners. Thank you everyone for chipping in and searching for those lost coins or just emptying out your pockets for a day to support this cause! My personal goal is to raise $250 to send a sick child to camp for a day, I am currently at $243.27!!! Only $7 away. I hope our team can muster up enough support and raise enough money to send a child to camp for a week ($1750). THANK YOU EVERYONE WHO HAS DONATED AND SUPPORTED!! If you’d like to donate some change, you can do so here (the site is secure and does not charge you any transaction fees). Every little bit helps! 😀

I’m a bit behind on my blog readings and I apologize for this but I will be spending tomorrow night catching up on your blog!

That’s all for tonight folks! Thank you for reading and supporting!
Good Night,

Today I have run my furthest distance yet and I didn’t even eat dinner yet! I’ll be munching on food as I blog, so don’t worry, I’m getting my energy back in!

April 3 Run: 66 min, 5.35 miles (8.61 KM or 8.13 km on Nike+)

This run was back on the treadmill because it feels like -6° C outside right now. I am definitely praying for good weather for this Saturday. The forecasts have changed up and down from Sun, Rain, Snow, Rain, Sleet, Flurries, and now Sun again. Fingers crossed we get sun or snow (no rain). I am hoping to hit a PB (Personal Best) on this race!!

Now to get back to today’s run. I was hungry and wanted to eat first but I really don’t want to be such a bother and run too late with my “loud” treadmill (I even put mats under it now). So, I got home, went out for a walk, then ran on the treadmill… Yes, I understand if I can walk outside for 30 minutes, I probably could have just done the 1 hour run outside. I feel awesome right now. I haven’t done a third set of anything on this plan and felt great, but after my strategic two-day rest (instead of one), I feel like I destroyed today’s run. The first two intervals of 18 minutes I ran at 5 mph (my standard). The last 18 minutes I ran at 5.4 mph; Why? Because that puts me at a pace of 11.07 minutes per miles or roughly 6.56 minutes per km. Why am I crazy enough to increase my pace by so much? Because this is the pace I need to do Saturday to Hit 5K in 35 minutes.

I know running is about overcoming my own struggles and beating my own records, but after reading yours and other fellow runners’ blogs, I feel I need to really get in the game! I am definitely running charity runs to raise money and awareness. I am still fundraising for Camp Oochigeas and also running To Fight Prostate Cancer at Harry’s Spring Run-Off this Saturday; so don’t forget to support where you can! 🙂

Anyways, back to the run, it was a little bit of a struggle but really, nothing I haven’t faced before and nothing too challenging; it was manageable. You know what this means? It means I CAN run faster.

Oh, I’ve also wanted to bring up something about running. Today I was talking to two of my teammates running the Sporting Life 10K with me this May. They were telling me about techniques, plans, and such. One thing that came up with Tempo runs. So, I’ve looked a bit into this before and read about your runs and other runners who have different run schedules. Am I doing a Tempo run? Does it count? I thought I’m doing intervals but really what does it matter? Running to me is Tying up my shoes and running my heart out! Whether I run at 5 mph or 20 mph, I am running and to me, that’s all that matters right now. Yes, I would like to get faster and better, but I think that will come with time. I do focus on a pace, a time, and a distance goal, but ultimately, I just want to run and finish a run. Too much analytical and not enough physical!

Unfortunately, a little slower than the last run; didn’t hit the distance today, but I did finish and charged through the last 6 or 7 minutes with all that I had. Hands in a fist, short quick strides and ran on like a machine; at least I felt like a robot for those moments. The earlier part of the run was extremely challenging. I couldn’t breathe right, my stomach was/still is upset, I couldn’t find a comfortable stride, and I really just wanted to lay in bed all day today. Honestly, today felt more like a run than any other day. Most of the time I just glide by and my steps seem to be moving the way they should but today I really noticed my steps were shorter. As hard as I tried to float on, I just had to run instead. Luckily I had a run partner again today to pace me and chase after.

Don’t get me wrong, I am super happy I completed the run. Early when runrchatts kept pushing me and encouraging me to find my breathe, I found myself saying “I Can’t!”. In that moment, I broke my own heart. How could those words come out?!! No matter how tough the run is, I CAN!!

I guess that’s what I get for having two pints of beer last night. I know it’s not a lot, but that’s probably the most booze I’ve consumed in one sitting this year. I wasn’t wasted or hung over, my stomach just wasn’t so happy with me this morning. I did have a good time catching up with a couple friends last night and enjoyed sleeping in this morning.

The plan I set for myself is to run one, rest one. Yesterday was a rest day and this was though (I really wanted to go for a 5k record yesterday after reading a bunch of inspiring blogs with beating record times: Set up for Success, My First 5K!!!, and Excitement and Disappointment). During my run today, I just kept thinking, how is my body still so sore after a rest day yesterday? I am eating healthy and all the right foods, but it has dawned on me that I may not be eating enough still; regardless of what all these recommended daily intake plans/diets/whatever you want to call them suggest. I think it’s time to start eating a bit more on my rest and run days. Yay!!!

Speaking of which, I’m off to enjoy some Easter treats, mmm. Hope you all enjoy the day!

It’s a beautiful day outside. Today, is Good Friday and I get the day off work. Couldn’t have been better planned, 5° C outside. Perfect for getting back out for the first outdoor run of the year!

March 29 Run: 66 minutes, 5.22 miles (8.40 km, 9.06 km on Nike+)

I’d like to thank fellow runner and blogger runrchatts for coming out here and running with me today. He obviously kept pace with me but it was great having someone who knew my pace and kept it for those moments I needed to step it up a little bit.

After my last blog things were challenging in life. By things I mean everything and I even had the split moments considering if I should just quit running. I stumbled across this inspirational image/quote to the right and just realized, I’m a runner!
I would also like to thank everyone for the encouragement and support after my last blog. It honestly helps knowing that I’m not quite alone here, you are motivating and helping me stay strong. Thank you thestripedstrawberry, diannegray, I’maRunner?, and Emma D. They all have great blogs you should check out too! Thank you everyone who follows, reads, like, shares, and support. 🙂

So, let’s talk running. Today’s run was my longest distance and longest time. I will be repeating this run two more times before increasing the time again. The run was as follows for 10:1, 5 minute walk, 18 minute run, 1 minute walk, 18 minute run, 1 minute walk, 18 minute run, and 5 minute cool down walk. All in all, I had a better run than last but kept the same pace as if I was on the treadmill (if you work out all the details and math). Pretty sweet!

This is also my PR for 5k this 2013 I think… 37 minutes to complete 5k. It’s not the best time compared to other runners or to my past, but it feels great now! It’s a good steady pace and if I had pushed harder, I could have done it faster. Hello Harry’s 5k next week, be ready to see me at my best!

Tomorrow is going to be another beautiful day out and I’m a little stiff now but I definitely want to get back outside to run some more! I’m glad the neighbours complained; I didn’t run last night on the treadmill because I didn’t want to a nuisance. Instead, I ran outside this morning and I feel wonderful! Hopefully I can get out again for a run, if anything a smaller 30 minute jog or 5 k total. We’ll see what tomorrow has in store.

One more thing I’d like to share. Before running this morning I made a healthy breakfast and watched a very inspirational documentary done by PBS. It is available below. If you have some time this weekend, watch it! 🙂 It’s a good one.

Since my last post, I have been in a very odd state. A vast array of emotions have come and gone. I actually ended up throwing up that night instead of going for a walk. Yesterday, I was pretty bummed out: I’ve received noise complaints of the treadmill in my apartment. I’ve had the treadmill for three months and didn’t throw out the box until Tuesday; I received a complaint on the Wednesday… It’s unfortunate but I’ve been living here for almost three years, it’s time to find a new home where I am welcomed.

Today I saw the dentist and had 1.5 hours of work done on the tooth that’s been giving me some issues. Not in the clear yet, I will be back in two weeks. With the stress of this on my body and doing work from home today, I’m not feeling very well. My stomach still feels a bit off and during my run I was light-headed the entire time.

March 26 Run: 61 minutes, 4.77 miles (7.81 km on Nike+)

This was by far the most challenging run I can think of. It’s the same run as the last two… The last two intervals I was hanging onto the treadmill feeling faint and noticing my headache was more prominent. The entire run, I was in a very negative and dark place. I couldn’t get my mind into the good. In the end I finished it but it didn’t feel as good as the last two runs. I’m terrified since the next run to plan will be 18 minute intervals instead of 12… I really don’t know how I will do this.

I have updated the 10k for Pink plan with a comparison of my plan to theirs. Basically, I’ve changed the times to hit match the distance as the plan expects running a 10 minute mile instead of the 12 minute mile I’m pacing at.

To jump back to earlier this morning, I’ve impulsively signed up for a 5k run. I was super stoked when I signed up thinking this will be great to do prior to the 10k coming up. This 5k is raising money for prostate cancer research and is on April 6.

So, my day started out pretty exciting… Then I started reading other blogs to get inspired… Then I started thinking about all the other runners out there and how I am doing… It isn’t getting any easier. I haven’t found my breath. I haven’t lost weight (and trust me, I’ve eaten a lot better as well). I’m slower than I was before. I am dreading running outside again. I’m terrified of this 5k because of the unknown. What is the route like? What about the hills? What about the sketchy weather?

I don’t mean to be really negative, I just find myself in a rut and almost wanting to quit. I’ve even thought about finishing the 10k then quitting. I don’t know how I got here… Earlier in the week I had the positive mindset, thinking maybe after the 10k, it won’t be enough and I’ll maybe do a half marathon one day…

Well… All in all, I’m trying to get myself out of this funk and excited again…
All that matters is finishing and not stopping… This photo sums it all up.

Hopefully there will be a better next blog, I’ll have completed 10:1 and be in a more positive mental space.

Tomorrow night is ladies night and that means, no run for a Monday. Instead, I went for a nice 5 km walk yesterday and ran today.

March 24 Run: 61 min, 4.77 miles (7.67 km, 8.28 km on Nike+)

Last run I calibrated my Nike+ to the right distance…. Today’s run was the exact same run as the last run but somehow it not only didn’t record the same km as last time, the incorrect 8.28 is 0.10 km more than the last run. Basically, instead of going down, the distance went up! This is definitely odd but that’s ok, still keeping track of my fitness.

I just finished run 9:2 with my alternate timing to hit the distance goals. Because I am doing this, I had to find another app that would set up each run interval to my desired time (unfortunately, my treadmill isn’t smart enough to do this for me). The last two runs, I’ve tested two different free interval apps, Seconds and IntervalTimer. Both have been ok but neither are as appealing as the 10k for Pink app.

It was pretty tough to get myself onto the treadmill today. Spent the day being lazy and didn’t eat at my regular times. I also didn’t eat as much as I should have. Everything just felt a little off. My head said yes you need to do this, my body said no you’re still sore from the last run… After lollygagging around, taking over an hour to change and get myself on.. eventually I did it. Well I ran and I’m hoping my legs function tomorrow for work and ladies night. I’ve stretched quite a bit and will continue to for the rest of the night, and maybe even do another little walk to loosen up before bed. My legs are pretty stiff still from the last run and I’m not sure if physically this is getting any better but mentally I’m telling myself it is!

Oh, I also forgot the best part of today’s run, besides doing it and finishing, I ran the last 12 minutes (mile) with a 0.5% incline. This may seem very little but I’m hoping I can build up the incline as my weakest moments so I can fight through those hills. After walking the 5k yesterday (the same route I ran last year), I remembered how difficult the smallest little hill seemed. Even walking it didn’t feel very nice with my stiff calves. Hills, I don’t hate them at all, I just dread seeing them and having to go up them; but, who doesn’t like a challenge?

Part of my lazy day today was spent shopping – but only related to health and running. In the end, I ended up picking up a few new items for running. I got 3 new sports bras (Stellar Sassafras, I got two pink ones and the back of one is actually cheetah print pink), two running tops, and a pair of capris. All of this was on sale too!!! Everything together (from 3 different shops), less than $100 CAD. Petty awesome! 😀

Hey There!! That’s my longest run to date, both in distance and in duration! How’s that? 5 minutes walk, 12 minute intervals at 5 mph with 1 minute brisk walks in between followed with a 5 minute cool down jog/walk. YEAAAAAHHHHH!!!

As I blog, I am chowing down dinner. Yes, Friday Night is Date night, tonight I had a date and the treadmill is the third wheel. I made a nice healthy dinner for my date to have while I ran. Now I’m munching on dinner and he’s on the treadmill! I couldn’t ask for a better night! I even got my Nike+ Fuelband all set up, so if you’ve got one, add me! I’m already finding it pretty fun and challenging trying to get to my goal before the day ends. We’ll end the night with a walk together to cool down in the freezing cold outside but the crisp night walk will still be my favourite part to do this together.

Okay, back to the running. Tonight I advanced to the 10k for Pink Week 9, Day 1 run. I’ve had to alter the plan a little bit – I’ll be updating the run plan on the other page shortly once I work all the details out. The plan calls for running 10 minute intervals, but after working out the previous few runs, the app wants me to run a 10 minute mile. I’m currently running at 12 minute mile. Since the whole point of the app and this training is to hit a DISTANCE goal of 10 k I’ve decided to adjust my runs to the relative distance the app is assuming I will run. So, the app says walk 5, run 10, walk 1, run 10, walk 1, run 10, walk 1, run 10, walk 5… I’m only going to adjust the running bits as I have been with the past runs. 10 minute mile means I have to add 2 minutes few every 10 the app tells me to run. Not a problem….

By the time I got to 2.5 miles (a little over half my workout), my legs were burning!!! I think I’ll feel this run tomorrow. If not in my legs then definitely in my core. And you know what the best thing is? This is good pain!! I can handle this pain and WANT this kind of pain. Soreness from working is just such a great feeling. Yes, I dread the fact that I might not be able to walk in two days when this run really kicks in but I know it’s working!! 🙂

Yes, tonight’s run was tough, BUT IT WAS WORTH IT!!! I may not be smiling as I’m focussing on eating and drinking fluids right now but my heart is smiling as big as it can!! 😀

I hope you all had a great Friday night and if not, Carpe Diem!! GO SEIZE THE DAY!!

Today is a “rest” day. I really had in my mind that I would move onto the next run on the plan (just felt extra determined today) but I decided against it. My head’s been pounding and I said I wasn’t going to do two 10k for Pink runs consecutively without a rest day in between.

March 21 Run: 26 minutes, 2.02 miles (3.41 km on Nike+)

After going for a half hour walk, I did lose that energy and the pain in my mouth, jaw, and ear flooded me with grief. Sometimes, it’s just frustrating not being able to do anything about the pain. Since my head had started throbbing I really didn’t want to run but a part of me did, so I did. If I didn’t, I’m sure I’d be laying in bed tonight wishing I had. 20 minutes of running with 3 minutes to warm up and cool down definitely was enough. Challenging but not too strenuous. The entire time I could feel my jaw and head throbbing but I just thought, how much worse I would feel if I had just curled up on the couch; the pain would have seemed worse.

Anyways, today I felt inspired and went out to get the Nike+ Fuel Band. Do any of you have this? I have not synced mine up or anything yet, I’ll do that over the weekend. I’m pretty excited as I feel this will just be another tool to keep me motivated and challenged. I’m pretty competitive so if you have one, let me know so we can be buddies on it. What are your reviews? Should I keep it? Not bother? Was it worth the $$$? Also, If you have the Nike+ Running account set up, then add me there too! Find me via rundmach on Nike+ Running. I know I complain about its inaccuracies but it’s still fun being a little competitive and cheering each other on.

Tonight I blog in extreme excitement!! I have much to say so this may get a little long – be warned. 🙂

March 20 Run: 46 minutes, 3.70 miles (6.41 km on Nike+)

First off, WOHOO!! I ran 5 KM straight on the treadmill in 36 minutes and 20 seconds!! Second, I’ve blogged about Nike+ quite a bit and it’s obvious, something is wrong with it, 3.70 miles is really 5.95 km. This is almost half a full km off. That’s a pretty big difference when training for a 10 k! Third, back to the good, I ran 36:20 with the last minute upping from 5 mph to 5.2 and the last 30 seconds going up to 5.5 mph! 5 minutes warm up then a 5 minute cool down. Forth, I still had energy to keep going!! Fifth, I have been insanely ill today. I have a tooth infection and have been on meds for two days now. My head has been killing me (jaw/ear/mouth/temple) to the point I was smashing my head into my desk today when a co-worker walked by and thought I was just overwhelmed with work. Lastly, I didn’t even think I was going to run! After work I went for a half hour walk thinking that would be it since I felt soo sick (by 6 pm I had already taken 6 T2’s today). I came back from the walk with insane energy, head felt good, stomach a bit off still, but all in all, I had this determination to succeed tonight. Boy did I ever rise to the occassion! WOOOOHOOO!

Although Nike+ is wrong in terms of distance, it’s still a good relative comparison over time as it is what I’m using to run on my iPod nano. Today, all of my running KMs averaged BELOW 7 minutes per km!!!! It’s been a long time since I’ve seen those numbers and I’m so excited to be reuinted with these results. COME ON NICE WEATHER!! I can’t wait to run the 5 KM route around my block….TWICE! 😀

Thank you runat49 for nominating me!!! It’s a huge honour to be nominated for this! I love my blog and I love reading everyone else’s blogs that keep inspiring me to blog and run.

What is the Liebster award? Find out at strivebalance – Karen does a pretty great job at keeping it short and sweet.

This is a bit tougher for me as all I seem to blog about is running so let me give this a go and give you 11 random facts about me that I haven’t shared yet.

I have been working for the same company for almost 9 years now (since August 2004).

I just bought a complete new set of Golf clubs – I’ve never golfed in my life but I will start this summer!

My mom made my dad go through the Burger King drive through when she went into labour with me – this must be why I love fast food! (runat49, I thought you’d like this)

I am a hopeless romantic; I am not married but can’t wait to be.

I have earned honours in my Bachelor of Commerce Degree majoring in Operations with a minor in Human Resource studies.

I earned the President’s National Scholarship, at the University I earned that degree, for all 4 years. Only 5 students earn this award each year.

I set extremely high expectations for myself and beat myself down too hard too often.

As a kid I hated running but loved all other sports (I saw nothing great in running – boy was I wrong!)

I have a tattoo on my right wrist that says LIVE ♢ LEARN ♢ GROW

I find it easier to do nice things for others and treat others than to do the same for myself.

I am super happy for Danni who recently won The Biggest Loser season 13. I have been cheering for her the entire time.

Now, the other part of this is to answer 11 questions that I have been asked.

Who most influenced your life and why?My mom – she’s a warrior with insane stength: divorced, raised my brothers and me on her own without child support, had the strength to walk away, … I could go on but I think that paints a good picture. She has taught me to be strong, determined, and to never settle.

Why did you start blogging?To raise awareness for the charities I am running for, and keep myself dedicated and accountable to running.

What do you like most about blogging?Receiving Likes, followers, and visitors – this stuff means a lot to me. Also, I am able to be completely honest with my feelings, track my progress, and hold myself accountable for not doing it (because if I don’t blog, that means I didn’t run).

What is your favorite movie and why?FIGHT CLUB – great plot, the movie was extremely well done (better than the book in my opinion) and we all have another side to us that we just don’t know about.

What is your favorite book and why?The Outsiders – this book taught me a lot as a child…

What was your favorite subject in school?No, it wasn’t gym… It was Math! I still love problem solving to this day. It’s kind of my job now. 🙂

What is your biggest goal for 2013?To complete two 10k races and raise money for good charities!

Who do you admire most?I admire Terry Fox. A man who ran across Canada after losing a leg to cancer to build awareness deserves admiration from the world. I couldn’t be happier to run for the Terry Fox Foundation in September.

What do you consider your best quality?I’ve been told I am too kind, I wear my heart out on my sleeve and always go above and beyond for others. I think these are pretty awesome qualities to have.

Where would you move if you could move anywhere in the world?Jasper (the Rocky Mountains) if I didn’t have to work. I’d snowboard all winter long, and run through the mountains and forests all summer.

What makes you happy?This one’s easy, RUNNING! But also family, food, snowboarding, and sleep also make me happy. 🙂 .

FInally, I nominate these bloggers that have inspired me, check them out:

Last night I missed dinner. I fell asleep around 8. Not sure if it’s from the pain I’ve been dealing with or just the extra exercise I had done yesterday. Went for some big walks and had the larger run. Today is an off day from the 10k plan. Got up and went for a walk. Came home and needed some more!

March 17 Run: 20 minutes, 1.64 miles (2.68 km on Nike+)

I did a short but tougher run. A full 15 minutes at 5.3 mph. I know, slow rest days should be just that but I don’t quite consider this a rest day. Even though it isn’t a day on the plan, it’s still a day to exercise. Besides, I kind of want some junk food so I want to feel like I’ve earned it and never feel guilty for eating what I’d like.

It’s Sunday and I hope you are enjoying the day! I’m off to enjoy some fresh salmon I have waiting for me in the oven. Yum!

Yesterday was my cheat day. At work we had Pizza and Beer for lunch. I had 5 small square slices of delicious pizza, a muffin, a cookie, and kettle corn popcorn. On the plus side I didn’t have any beer! I went for a bigger walk last night as well as planned to run… That plan failed, but I woke up this morning and ran.

March 16 Run: 43 minutes, 3.36 miles, (5.75 km on Nike+)

This was a very challenging run. After the 5 minute warm up walk I was already exhausted and wanted to stop… Every minute dragged on of running. Luckily I found encouragement and inspiration. I had to force the bad negative thoughts into positive ones. Not there’s still 2 miles to go, instead, I’ve done a mile already! It took a lot to celebrate the wins but with everyone’s support and knowing the positive reinforcements around me, I trekked on and finished the run!

Not to complain some more, but to add to my knee still being messed up, I’ve been having insane jaw/ear/head pains. It’s been so bad I wake up in pain at night. Sometimes I just want to smash my face into a wall to make it better. I’m only bringing this up now because it’s the only thing on my mind as the pain is distracting my thoughts. It’s been over two weeks of this. I think I’ll be going to a walk in clinic today to see what’s going on.

Anyways, the next run is 5k… After today’s run, I’m a little fearful. I hope the weather turns around and I can do the 5k outside. I am beginning to love the treadmill though: it pushes me to regulate my speed, I avoid pushing any buttons now which means I never stop until the plan says I should, music is much more enjoyable and easier to control over wifi (using online radio) and I have the visual of my iPad sitting in front of me counting every minute down.

On another note, I will need to work on rebuilding my music folders and a few 10k running playlists for when I start running outside again. I get bored of music quickly and need to change it up pretty regularly as I can listen to anything but find it hard to pull energy from repetitive playlists. What do you run to?

Tonight was my night off. My plan, as flexible as it may seem, is running the 10K for Pink program 3 times a week, and never twice in a row. I started the night off after getting home from work by going out for a brisk 20 minute walk…

March 13 Short Run: 13 minutes, 1.11 miles (1.77 km on Nike+)

I couldn’t NOT run tonight. After having a light dinner, I started preparing some fruits for work tomorrow. It wasn’t until 10 past 9 I realized, I HAVE to run. The walk wasn’t enough; Just a short run, enough to get my heart rate up and feel good.

I walked for 1.5 minutes, ran 5.6 mph for 10 minutes, and walked another 1.5 minutes. Yes, I upped my speed! (Don’t worry, I didn’t push myself too hard, just testing what I can really do). Off to go outside and do a proper cool down walk.

It’s getting warmer here but tonight I chose to run on the treadmill. The weekend was nice, but I chose not to run. I did go for a couple walks but I chose to sit around and be lazy. I did choose to run tonight. I’ve chosen to walk every day, just not run. I have not mentally reached that state yet where I can make time to run, instead I’ve made excuses. I am working on this!

Some days are tougher than others. Mondays have normally been my easiest day to get myself to run and be the fastest I can be. Somehow, yesterday, I broke down instead. It really hit me. I’m not old but I am getting older and my body is slowing down. I’ve consistently put on weight year over year. I’m losing energy, feeling lazy, and lacking enthusiasm to staying in shape. Last night was very hard…

There are only 60 days left to the run! Please remember, I am not only doing this for my health but I am trying to fundraise to send sick children to camp. I’ve been collecting pennies at work and trying to raise money wherever I can. I’ll also be matching the donations I raise in pennies and change at work. If you’re in Canada, you know the penny is being put to rest. If it’s not too much, please, collect your coins, deposit them, and donate to the charity: Donate to Camp Oochigeas. Even if you’re in another country, send over a $1, the charity is secure and takes major credit cards.

I’m not asking for much. Just the acknowledgement of your support. So like my post, follow my blog, donate to the charity, leave an inspiring comment, or do nothing (even your virtual footprint of visiting my page is enough!). Every little bit you do counts and helps push me on.

All day I have been stoked that I’d be running tonight. After the last run, I couldn’t be more excited to defeat today’s run. Made a nice dinner after work, a small piece of baked chicken on some salad, mmm.

March 6 Run: 40 minutes, 3.11 miles (5.14 km on Nike+)

What a challenging run tonight! Although the run was tough, my legs felt stiff from Monday, my stomach was tight and sore, but I’m super glad I ran! I finished the run. I did all 2.5 miles on 5 mph straight. Wohoo!!

Thanks for stopping by! I’d like to take a quick minute to let you know, I’m grateful for your “likes” and comments, and even just visiting my blog. The fact that you came here to read this post means a lot to me. It is what fuels me to keep going and gives me a reason why I cannot stop. I am ultimately running for charity and to improve my health, but I couldn’t do it without your support. Without being accountable to the viewers and followers of this blog, I wouldn’t be able to keep pushing myself sometimes.

~Thank You~

February 27 Run: 40 minutes, 3.1 miles (5.13 km Nike +)

Tonight’s run was great! Extremely CHALLENGING!! I could barely make it to the 1st full mile running but somehow I just pulled through and did the 2.5 miles straight in 30 minutes! Wohoo! It was definitely hard. Near the end of the run, before the cool down, I could feel my entire stomach tightening up and telling me to stop but I kept going. 5 mph with 0 incline.

The worst thing right now is that my knee kills me OFF of the treadmill. It hasn’t gotten any better for the last few weeks when I get up to walk. I am still stretching and walking every day but my knee still gives out when I stand after sitting for a while. Not sure what to do here, my doctor’s in another city… it’s such a dull pinching pain, but it’s not life threatening…

The best thing right now is that I completed 5 km today with 10 minutes of walking. You know what that means? I can get to 5 km running in probably 35 minutes!! Can’t wait to get there in 5 more runs (according to the 10k for Pink plan)!!!! The plan does want me to run 5 k in 30 minutes but I am set on finishing the 10k in May, not setting a record, haha.
I’m also super excited because run 7:2 and 7:3 are the same as today. This means I get more time to practice and run better at this pace.

Mondays always seem to be a tough day but I always find myself wanting to run more on a Monday night. It was 9 PM when I got on the treadmill. Must be the love of running I have to work all day and fight off the bag of chips I was going to eat for dinner; instead I got up and ran.

I just finished running 6:3 of the running plan on my iPad’s 10K for Pink. The reason I’m bringing this in is because my iPad’s 6:3 is actually different from my iPod’s 6:3 (but it’s the same app!). A little confused at this difference since my iPad said to run 2 miles straight while my iPod said to run 2.25 miles. I didn’t realize there was a difference; I ran 2 miles straight thinking I was doing the distance (over the time).

February 25 Run: 34 minutes, 2.59 miles (4.44 km on Nike+)

I am super stoked I ran for 24 minutes straight (2 miles) at 5 mph (0 incline). I’m 1/3 of the way to my goal!!! The app initially said to run 2 miles in 20 minutes, on my other device it says to run 2.25 miles in 22 minutes. So, I’ve gone for the distance but am a bit let down because I definitely could have done the 2.25 miles! What a shame for not knowing. It is great joy knowing that I feel the confidence that I can do the 2.25 miles. The next run (7:1) is doing 2.5 miles straight in 25 minutes. I won’t be doing this in 25 minutes, I’m estimating 30 minutes.

6 runs away from 5 km! Averaging around 7 minutes / km means I can do this in 35 minutes on the treadmill! I’m excited!!! This also means that once I transfer this outdoors, I can do 5k faster than that! So stoked to get there!!! Can’t wait to see where I’ll be in 2.5 months at 10k!

Another week has come and gone. I’ve let myself slip off of running yet again for 7 days! How is this possible? Sometimes I really just need to be reminded of how much I love running! Every day this past week I’ve procrastinated and made excuses. I’m even on vacation this week doing nothing! There are people busier than me out there making time to run. Every night I’ve gone to bed regretting I didn’t get up to run. Today I woke up and ran! No more regrets. Who can live a life full of wishful thinking? It’s the actions that count.

Of course, once I got on the treadmill, the joy of running all came rushing back!! This came all too quickly and was such a sweet, wonderful feeling.

February 21 Run: 37 minutes, 2.79 miles (4.73 km on Nike+)

Today’s run was not hard at all and yet I ran a little faster than any other time I’ve been sticking to the 10k plan. Maybe last week’s run with the group (at a faster pace and outside) really did do more than just a run. I stuck to the distance today. Running plan for Week 6 day 2 says Workout for 33 minutes (5 minute warm up, 1 mile/10 min run, walk 3 min/0.25 mile, 1 mile/10 min run, 5 minute cool down). Since the last few runs have been short, I did the distance in running which took me 12 minutes to run a mile (5 mph). I don’t mind that it took me longer. I almost wanted to keep going after the first 12 minute and not stop to walk 3 minutes. Quickly, I realized I should take the walk so I can run the next 12 minutes, good idea!

This just makes my heart melt! ❤

Tomorrow I spend the day at Blue Mountain snowboarding, wohoo!!! This is not my favourite place to go especially on a Friday of reading week (spring break in Canada) but I’m still excited to ride!!! I truly love to snowboard. I’m just a beginner but just like Running, I don’t need to be a superstar to love it! It’s going to be awesome!!!!

On the other positive note, I’ve been going for a walk every day this year. I’ve also been making sure I do more lately since my knee is still messed up and hurts in a slight discomforting pinching kind of way… No help… Walking is still good exercise!! 🙂

I’m excited to run outside again and I hope this -18°C weather goes away soon! It’s almost too cold to walk outside with the windchill, let alone think about running! Kudos to all those runners I keep seeing in the area when I’m out for a walk and you’re embracing the cold running like a mad man/woman.

Tonight marks a milestone in my history of running! I ran outside in the winter! I’d like to thank my coworkers who have joined the 10k run with Sporting Life to support me. Tonight CJ, JJ, and TF took me out for a run at 5 pm right after work! They are truly in much better shape and I cant wait to be that fit! This group was awesome support!! They got me to run 10 walk 1!

February 13 Run: 31 minutes, roughly 4.4 km from gmap (4.2 km on Nike+)
My knee is still messed up but the run wasn’t painful; it’s sitting, stretching, and walking that hurts… The weather was a bit cold at first but definitely tolerable! It was -1 feels like -3 degrees Celsius. Next week, I need gloves!

Although this is off my plan, I will work this into my run schedule to be the 4th extra run and follow the original plan on my personal runs.

The group also wants to increase the run to 5km next week. I think I can do this, it will be hard but doable! I know this is a little off my 10k program I am following but these guys are running for me, I have to join them when they run! Plus, it’s super motivating running together. Intimidating as hell since today I ran with our VP, and director of HR. next week, my director will also be joining us on the run!

I’m very happy and impressed with myself. I fell behind but one of the runners stuck with my slower pace. It was tough for me but I did it! I’m excited to run with the group again.

It’s been 10 days since my last run, today, I ran! … It was really a jog but it still counts!

February 11 Run/Jog: 34 minutes, 2.26 miles (3.79km on Nike+)

My knee is still not recovered but I couldn’t take it anymore! I needed to run! So tonight, I got changed (9:30 pm), stretched out my legs extra longer than usual, walked at 3-3.5 mph and ran each interval at 4.5 mph. This is the slowest I’ve ever “ran” since starting this plan but it was nice. It was easy but still very painful on my knee; I ran with a limp and wasn’t trying to. I am taking it a bit easy and not push myself too hard. Slow and steady…

I know I may not be running at the speed I need to be to stay on plan BUT I am still running. As long as I keep running, I know I will get to the finish line!

Taking it slower was great. Tonight I got the chance to practice breathing. This is how you know I’m a beginner runner still, I don’t breathe properly. My friend Robert has always told me to learn to breathe and running will be much easier. He’s able to run forever at an easy pace because of his breathing. I don’t breathe well for the fact that I’m a chest breather and runners are recommended to breathe through their bellies. It still hasn’t clicked in my mind to just naturally breathe through my stomach; I’ve been practicing my breathing even off of the treadmill.

I hope that the next run is better on my knee and I can go a little bit faster. Until then…

Good night for now 🙂

rundmach

p.s. I forgot to talk about how my snowboarding went the other night. I love snowboarding! It was amazing and it was just puking snow outside! I didn’t hurt myself EXCEPT for being on the chairlift… somehow, I got smoked at the chairlift getting on. I wish it was recorded, it looked like something that would have been on the funniest home videos. It wasn’t funny at the time when I fell and smashed my head on the ground but after I opened my eyes and was thankful I wore a helmet, it was funny. I hurt my neck in that fall from a bit of whip lash (I’m guessing from my head being thrown up off the ground after the impact). So, I hope this let’s you know a bit more about me, Snowboarding is the other love of my life and although it has been a while, the love never dies. This should also give you a better understanding that I am pretty accident prone (trampoline injury, snowboarding injury)… I’m pretty clumsy sometimes… most of the time!

Hi,
It’s been 6 days since my last run. My knee is still in a bit of pain when it’s extended or fully bent. I don’t know what to do. I’m sad I can’t run because I don’t want to force it. I’ve been out for some big walks hoping to help but it doesn’t seem to. Stretching is helping a little bit, but not enough.

Tonight I am excited to go snowboarding but I am scared. I’m not sure how long I’ll last and my lead leg is my injured one. I’m worried about riding but I’m excited to get out on the hills
again. It’s been two years since I’ve been snowboarding but I have never fallen out of love with it. Once you love, you love forever. There is never a past tense to love. Running will always be a love even if we’re taking a break right now. I hope this break doesn’t last long! I miss you running, even when it’s settling on a treadmill!

Over the weekend, I had a great time playing trampoline dodgeball for two hours! I hurt my knee on the first jump but didn’t realize how bad it was. I just played through it for two hours. What a great fun workout! That night, my knee was hurting in a dull pain I’ve never felt before. It felt so bad I almost cried when I tried to go for a walk. I iced my knee for the night and went to bed.
I woke up and was unable to walk at all! I liked around for the day in the worst pain. Plus my body was sore everywhere! My thighs, bum, back, arm, everything! Definitely got a good workout… I had a few family functions to get to and that was very difficult. I did eat a lot and enjoy myself when I didn’t have to be on my feet.

Today, I woke up and most of the pain is gone! Whew! It’s still hurting a bit when I’m walking or trying to extend my leg completely but it’s not bad at all compared to yesterday. I’ve also got a weird swell in my hand that’s hurting my thumb… Could have been from dodgeball as well… Who knows.

I’m very sad I don’t get to run tonight… Or even tomorrow if I’m not feeling perfect… I do not want to force anything. I really want to feel better! I took Wednesday to Friday off this week hoping to go snowboarding. Hopefully I can still go boarding this week once or twice.

This picture made me laugh so hard and it’s kind of true. I hope you enjoy it too! 🙂

It’s Friday and I didn’t have to work today! It’s been a bit overwhelming at work so I decided to use up some vacation time and make this week short. I’ve scheduled quite a few other days off for the month of February. Can you believe it?! It’s February 1st already! Where did January* go? I guess it just ran past me! ha-ha…

This morning I didn’t sleep in too much. Woke up maybe an hour later than I normally would for work. Had a bit of breakfast and went for a walk in the -16°C weather but it was nice and sunny. It felt great being outside during daylight! With the crazy Canadian weather, most days, I get to work and it’s light out but there’s no sun and by the time I leave work, it’s dark out.

My last run definitely was a challenge because today my legs are a little sore.

I had a lot of plans for today and didn’t get through them all but I did get to run!

February 1 Run: 30 minutes, 2.39 miles (3.6km on Nike+)

Today I kind of followed plan. I did the run time but I didn’t do the distance… On the app, the time went 5 minute warm up, 20 minute run, 5 minute cool down. Instead of doing the 2.25 miles in the 20 minutes, I did 1.76 miles. At first I went into this run thinking I would do the distance regardless of the time but once the app changed and said to start walking, I noticed I had another 1/2 mile to go, so I listened to my aching body and walked.

The slightly troublesome part is that I didn’t run on an incline today and ran at 5.3 mph, hoping this “easier” pace would have gotten me to run the extra ~5 minutes I needed to get to the 2.25 goal.

I want to repeat this interval until I can run 2.25 miles straight before going further. This sets me a little behind because I won’t be running tomorrow (going to be playing trampoline dodgeball!). I’ll be creeping into next week’s plan as I repeat week 5.

I’ve decided even though I want to do the 2.25 mile straight before moving on, I will just stick to the plan (unless somehow I find time to run Sunday).
Week 6, day 1 and 2 seem a bit easier with walking intervals. At Week 6, day 3, I will be running 2.25 miles straight. This time when I get to this day, I will do the distance and not the time! 🙂

I’m excited for the weekend: Trampoline dodgeball Saturday, all you can eat birthday buffet lunch Sunday, and a big family dinner Sunday night! Sunday will definitely be a write off day but I’m excited to see this side of my family (we see each other about once or twice a year) and rest!

Tonight I repeated the last run plan hoping I could get a bit more comfortable running it a little faster. Somehow, the numbers just don’t make sense to me anymore. Either I am just a sucky runner or Nike+ and my Treadmill are from two different universes.

January 30 Run: 31 minutes, 2.34 miles (3.6 km on Nike+)

Last year, I had come to the conclusion that Nike+ was wrong no matter what I did. I thought this may have just been because I was running outside. Tonight, I ran the same as I did the last run, BUT increased my speed from 5.3 mph to 5.4 mph for both of the 8 minute running intervals. Somehow, on Nike+ my average speed went from 8’14″/km down to 8’36″/km today. Treadmill says I ran the same distance of 2.34 miles both times while Nike+ says I did 3.61km today and 3.76 km last run. Well, I am puzzled but all that matters is I got on that treadmill and ran. Hopefully it was enough that I can advance to the next run (5:3), which is a little scary…

Maybe I was running at a slower pace, the second 8 minute interval felt like death! Maybe I didn’t let my dinner digest enough before running. Maybe I just can’t be running at 5.4 mph. Maybe I just need a heart rate monitor. Maybe I am just not trying hard enough. Maybe I’m over thinking this. Maybe I’m concentrating on the numbers too much. Maybe I just need to stop thinking. Maybe, maybe, maybe. So many possibilities but one thing is true, I finished the run. All I need to do is just RUN.

Tonight I ran late, I didn’t get on the treadmill until almost 10:30 PM. It took a lot of time to get mentally prepared and some more time to talk myself out of bed… Running is running, doesn’t matter what time I train, as long as I get up on that treadmill.

January 28 Run: 31 minutes, 2.34 miles (3.7 km on Nike +)
Started walking at 3.5-3.7 and ran at 5.3 mph (0.5% incline).

My treadmill is a bit of a miss on my part. I really should have researched more and been less impulsive with it, but it couldn’t have been that bad, I’ve been running the whole time since I got it. Anyways, I can only set the treadmill to a TIME goal over a distance goal. Why is this a problem? Because I tried to run 3/4 of a mile in 8 minutes but in 8 minutes I only got to 0.70 miles. I definitely was NOT walking a 10 minute mile either (1/2 mile in 5 minutes). I walked about 1/3 of a mile for each 5 minute walk. So, I ran a bit less than I should have according to plan but that’s ok. I have more than enough time this week to repeat this workout before moving on (and no, I don’t plan on increasing my brisk walking speed, not sure how I can do that without stumbling over my own feet).

I’m always open to new suggestions, methods, strategies, and opinions. I got some pretty good advice from a few other bloggers who have some pretty sweet blogs you should check out as well. Thanks Jamie and tchatt for leaving some food for thought!

I’m sad… the last part of my blog got cut off when I went to publish…. Here’s the gist of what else I had written…

This blog was started to share my running journey with you. Running has become such a huge part of my life, or so I’d like it to be. I feel it is time for you to get to know me a bit more. There’s so much I wish I could share with you but I would just ramble on like a school girl who just got her first kiss. For now it’s time to get hydrated and some rest. I hope that by next run/blog I am able to break down some barriers and knock down those walls that keep my so guarded. (All of this seemed to sound so much better the first time I wrote it.. :()

This morning had been a very emotional one for me. It started off nice as I woke up with a smile on my face. All night, I dreamt about running and was excited to get on the treadmill when I woke up.
It’s Sunday, that means weigh in day for me. It’s been 3 weeks now and I haven’t lost a single pound. Instead of being disappointed and sad, I was more angry and frustrated over this result. It’s not as if I’m eating horrible foods but I’m not cutting them out. I refuse to. I know I can lose weight and keep eating whatever I want, whether it’s chips or carrots. I like healthy and junky foods. I believe I have a decent balance of both. So why am I not losing any weight? It’s past the point where I’m feeling down about it, I’m just simply angry with this situation.Today, I’ve moved on to the next week a day in advance. Week 5, Day 1. I stepped up and ran each running interval at 5.3 mph. This run included three 5 minute runs and walking in between.

January 27 Run: 31 minutes, 2.25 miles (3.5 km)

By the last run of this week, I should be able to run the entire 2.25 miles (3.6 km) straight. It seems out of reach right now but we’ll see what happens during the week. I will move onto 5:2 for the next run but I plan on repeating that workout a couple of times this week before doing the final run for this week and attempting the 2.25 miles straight.

I’m reading everyone’s blogs and they are definitely inspirational and motivational. I like seeing how determined you all are out there. Thank you all for putting up your blogs and sharing your stories with everyone. I’m struggling to find my inspiration to running for myself but I hope to find it soon.

Sorry for the short post yesterday. I was puzzled and left without words. Yesterday’s run was filled with a thousand thoughts but at the same time, nothingness.

Today, I’ve ran again but I decided to repeat yesterday’s run. I’ve done the math backwards and I’m not running near the speed I need to, to get to the target goals.

January 25 Run: 32 minutes, 2.26 miles (3.6 km)

Running pace at 5 mph on a 0.05% incline, walking at 3.5, I covered just a little bit more distance today. However, at 5 mph I still won’t be able to reach my average run time last year and goal time for this coming run in May. I may repeat this interval again until I can do it comfortably at 5.5 or even 6 mph!

If I follow the plan, in 3 runs from now, I should be running 2.25 miles in 22 minutes. Right now I’m running 0.4 miles in 5 minutes, 5 mph. I should be running at around 6.1 mph to plan. I believe I can get there; I don’t see this as pushing myself too hard, just getting myself back on track. No more taking it easy and running 4.7. I know what I’m capable of and I can run faster than that. Not sure if I do 6.1 mph by the race but I sure as hell will try my hardest!

Sorry if it seems like I’m focussing on numbers too much but I work with them all day and numbers just make sense to me….most of the time.

Tonight’s run is week 4 day 2 of the 10k program I am following and hoping it works out. Day one was easy but tonight was tougher. I felt great so thought I could run. I did finish the run just slightly slower than yesterday on my Nike+ .

The program calls for only 3 runs a week but I have a problem; I have a love hate relationship with running. I do love running and feel 3 times a week just isn’t enough! I hate running because I’m just super lazy sometimes and it is tough for me right now but I’m sure that will go away soon enough. Since it was a challenging run tonight, I may take tomorrow off. If I feel I need to run tomorrow night and feel I can, then I am doing it! I will listen to my body and see what happens.

January 22 Run: 32 minutes, 2.16 miles (3.4 km on Nike+)

Same intervals as yesterday’s run. I did the same 0.5 incline and ran at 4.7 mph but may have walked a little slower today on the breaks at around 3.3-3.5 mph while yesterday I did 3.5-4 mph.

Overall, I’m happy with the running. Makes me feel I earned that extra slice of pizza I’m going to have tomorrow at work, involuntary Pizza Lunch, haha! Don’t worry, I’m not complaining, I’m pretty excited! Feels like it’s been a while since I’ve had pizza.

I have a lot to say tonight but I’ll start off with tonight’s run info:

January 21 Run: 32 minutes, 2.16 miles (3.5 km)

This week I begin training with the 10k for Pink program. This is a 14 week program but I’ve chosen to start at Week 4 feeling the first 4 weeks may have been a bit too slow pace for me. The program says you can start anywhere if you’ve ran before and even encourages starting at week 8 for those who have ran 5k. I haven’t ran 5 k in a while at once, so I thought I’d start halfway to that.

The program was pretty easy today: 5 minute warm up, 3 minute run, 90 second walk, 5 minute run, 2.5 minute walk, 3 minute run, 90 second walk, 5 minute run, and 5 minute cool down. I’m actually not tired at all and feel I can do more. The program is suggesting to run 3 times a week. Since I’d like to run more, I might alter the program by doing work out #2 of each week twice, or turning my weeks into 5 day weeks (run one, rest one, run one, rest one, etc.), or run 3 times a week with Saturday and Sunday being rest days as well… The plan itself doesn’t specify when to take the days off but just to do 3 runs in one week. I’m not sure what’s best but I know sticking to this running plan is a good idea. I’ll have to do some more reading and research.

After my last post, my brother, the physiotherapist, suggested that I maintain my training with a good program changing only either time or speed but never both at once. Although by the the second running interval, I wanted to up my speed because I knew I could run faster, I caught myself and quickly lowered the speed before it really started. I couldn’t up the speed or time because I had ran on an incline today. I normally run at 0 but I did a slight 0.5 incline to hopefully help build stamina. My friend, Robert, reminded me that even on a downhill run, when we get to flat patches, that will feel very different, and even suggested running hills to train. I need to get my body comfortable running at different elevations so I started with a small incline.

I’m really thankful for all my followers and friends on here looking out for me. THANK YOU! ❤

I was planning on running Sunday but I ended up spending a later day with my family and got home a little too late, or so I thought. I couldn’t sleep last night! All I kept doing was waking up wishing I had ran, feeling like I wasn’t all that tired because I didn’t use all of my energy to run. It wasn’t like I was going to get on the treadmill at 2 am; my surrounding neighbours in the apartment wouldn’t feel too great if I did. I don’t mind that I didn’t run, I had a great time playing cards with my family. I have all week to run. 🙂

Like I said, this is going to be a long one…

Over the weekend, I went shoe shopping for runners! It was a pretty successful weekend. The people at the Running Room are amazing and helped me out as they always have. I even scored a sweet 20% off from the Running Room magazine; this helps since this place is pretty pricey for me! I ended up trying a couple pairs on hoping to try a new running shoe/brand. In the end, I got my same runners in a newer version, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 13. My old ones are the 10s… I’m really excited about them! Today’s run in them was the first wear and everything felt pretty good. A little stiff in the left foot but that may have just been the lacing. These shoes just felt the best on my foot compared to all the other ones. It’s tough for me finding regular shoes let alone a good pair of running shoes. Go Brooks!

Scored a few other sweet items over the weekend.

Anyways, I think I have covered everything I wanted to post tonight.
Thanks for reading my long post! Just had a lot to say.

Today for my one treat item, I indulged in a doughnut and everyone made me feel so fat and guilty for it, I didn’t even get to really enjoy it… Everyday I allow myself one thing that’s not the best but is the reason I am able to hold down cravings; whether it is a small bag of chips or a piece of chocolate, I choose to have one small snack in the middle of the day on days where it’s tough to fight my urges. This really helps fight my cravings as I can have a big bag of chips all to myself or a whole box of candy bars in one sitting.

At work today, a friend helped me realize how my desk was not set up the best since she was talking about hers. With all this running and back pain, I tried to move my monitors around and lift my chair to be a bit more ergonomically correct. It helped my neck and back out a bit actually. Still not perfect but an improvement from looking downwards at my monitors.

After work, I got home and sat around to relax while my treadmill was staring right back at me. Guess I had to run and earn that doughnut…

January 18 Run: 30 minutes, 2.21 miles (3.5 km)

Although tonight was a short run, I walked 2 minutes, ran 23 minutes, and walked 5 minutes. I ran at 4.7mph on the treadmill and that was tough! I know it’s slow but it will get better. Today’s was challenging and I am proud of myself for getting to 23 minutes! I made checkpoints where I fooled myself saying I would stop to walk at 10 minutes, then 15, then 20, and in the end I finished 23 straight before settling down to walk. This was also a tough run because this is the first time ever my knees hurt. The insides of my knees, my lower back, and neck hurt as I ran… This is in addition to my rolls jiggling and flubber cramping up everywhere… The one factor I can think of besides needing to stretch more or getting my posture right at work, is the fact that I may need new shoes.

New shoes!! I think I’ll go shoe shopping tomorrow! I can’t really afford it but my current runners have last me quite a while. Trained in them all last year, went to mount doom and back in middle earth with them, and ran my first 5k in them. Hopefully new shoes will help solve my problems in my feet, knees, neck, and back. Sounds like I’m looking for miracle shoes.

Tonight marks a breakthrough in treadmill running for me. Lately, I’ve been struggling with slowing the treadmill down whenever I felt like I couldn’t go on or felt a pain. The treadmill I got only does preset workouts built-in or a manual time and one speed (in which you change the speeds manually as you run). I choose the manual one, but what I really want to do is be able to create my program to set it to specific miles per hour for specific lengths of time… So this is how I end up running 8 minutes walking 1 or 2… running 5 minutes walking 1 or 2… and so on..

I overcame that problem a bit tonight by telling myself, that it is OKAY to run/jog below 5 miles per hour… for whatever reason, since I’ve started running on the treadmill, it’s been 6, 5.5, or 5 mph and walking at 3.5 or 4 mph.

I had to add-on 5 minutes in another session on the treadmill because it doesn’t let you add time to a workout in process… a little silly… Seriously, if anyone owns a Livestrong treadmill, please help me out!

The entire run, I was feeling pain in spots that didn’t even exist before, flubber bouncing around, rolls cramping up, … etc.. By 33 minutes, my ankle was hurting in a way it’s never hurt before. I kept telling myself that I said I’d run another 3 minutes before I could stop, but it hurt so bad… I kept telling myself, I can do this, and the pain past… But about 10 seconds later my opposite foot was hurting in the arch and in my toes! I’m not saying all of this complaining but just explaining how much it did hurt to run but I just pushed through the pain today. Today was about getting to the time and if it meant running a little slower, under 5 mph, then that’s what I had to do to run for a longer period of time; 20 minutes straight, 45 minutes total! 🙂

Today I had to force myself to think positively; to think that “I’ve done this before, I can do this now, I want this for me, I want this for my future”. I thought about how I want to feel healthy and sexy again. I want to be comfortable laying on my couch without feeling rolls getting in the way when I’m trying to curl up…

~JUST THINK HAPPY THOUGHTS~

I am very excited that I did 45 minutes of exercise today!! Nike+ says I ran at an average pace of 8 minutes and 9 seconds per km while my first 5 km’s were all below 7’44″/km. That’s really exciting! It’s the last 0.6 km that I had walked to slow down that slowed down my average pace.

This means all I have to do is double my current run time and I can do the 10 km! I have not set any time goals as many others do for races… Currently, I would just like to finish the race and get to that 10 km mark.

Off to the finish line!!… in another 114 days… 16 weeks to go! …

Please don’t forgot to donate to the children I am also running for. I know I may be running for my health but I’m also fundraising for sick children with cancer to go to summer camps!!! Please donate here, or read more about my journey for this charity and the charity here.

Tonight was such a rough night. I came home starving and wasn’t in the right mind. Wanted to make some salmon and get some energy to do a run.. turns out the salmon went bad so I ended up spending more time to make some fresh spring rolls… They were delicious but took a while to digest and settle in before I could even think about running. I was tired and freezing in my apartment and just couldn’t get myself together… in the end, the battle was over, I changed and got on that treadmill.

January 15 Run: 40 minutes 3.09 miles (4.9km)

So close to hitting 5 km today! Arg!! Maybe tomorrow! I stopped a bit more than I had expected: 2 minute walk, 8 minutes run, 1 minute walk, 8 minute run, 2 minute walk, 5 minute run, 1 minute walk, 5 minute run, 2 minute walk, 1.5 minute run, 1 minute walk, 1.5 minute run, and 2 minute walk. That last little bit I was aiming to run 6 minutes but ended up walking much more and slowing down way too much. I had been running 5 KM in around 35 minutes last summer so I’m hoping I can get back to that really soon! Today was still slow though: Nike+ says I averaged 8 minutes and 12 seconds per km…. I believe it was still a successful run!

A little sad that my frined Robert has ran again and is now almost 6 km ahead of me. Goooo rchatts for running!!! I don’t think I’ll be able to catch up to him; it’s a good thing we’re running for the same team! 🙂

I want to thank a fellow blogger/bloggers I’ve been following for really inspiring me to run tonight. This is a group called youcantbeatthiscrew. Two days ago, this group posted a story about a guy who sits at a desk all day, check out the post: If this doesn’t motivate you…nothing will. Very inspirational, and just absolutely phenomenal!

It really comes down to just running… There’s so much on my mind all the time but really, what’s there to worry about? It’s just life. If I’m not healthy, I won’t be able to enjoy life so I better just keep running and get my butt back in shape.

Tonight marks a new week. I know I was a bit down last week and I still am a little held back in my head with how heavy I am getting but I did get up and get on the treadmill today. Despite having all you can eat yesterday, two doughnuts & a muffin today, I changed after work and got on that treadmill.

January 14 Run: 40 minutes, 3.03 miles (4.8km)

Today consisted of a 2 minute warm up, 8 minute run, 1 minute walk, 8 minute run, 1 minute walk, 4 minute run, 1 minute walk, 5 minute run, 2 minute walk, 6 minute run, and 2 minute cool down walk. I am a bit disappointed that I ran for 40 minutes, just as I did last run and didn’t gain too much extra distance today. I felt a lot better during today’s run, I really thought I had covered more distance. Unfortunately, I also forgot to turn on my Nike + to track my KMs for the first half of the run. Now runrchatts is still 1.91 km ahead of me according to Nike+… On the plus side, the 23 mintues I did capture on Nike+ put my average kilometer at 7 minutes and 57 seconds! I’m pretty sure my 20 minutes missed in running was 2 km! Especially since my first leg of my run is always my fastest… SHUCKS!… Regardless, the treadmill says I ran 3 miles so, I’ll take it for breaking that 3 mile mark! 🙂

I also tried something new today: I ran without chewing gum. Now this might sound odd to a lot of you as I’ve been told it’s weird; but, I can’t run/work out without gum! Specifically, my Excel Polar Ice. I’ve done this for as long as I can remember: as a kid I even chewed gum playing basketball, volleyball, soccer, etc. I’m not a huge gum fan when I’m not working out so maybe it’s just an ingrown habit? Anyways, I thought I’d give it a shot and just run and drink more water (I don’t really drink water when I run, I’ve also been told that’s not such a good idea). I drank about 3/4 of a bottle during my walks but it was definitely hard on my throat running without the gum today. I’ve gone running for 5 kilometers without water… I think I’ll have to go back to my old habits on this one.

I’d like to say a special THANK YOU to everyone who has been following my blog and checking up on me. Your “follows”, “likes”, comments, and visits do really help motivate me to keep running and not stop. I appreciate every click and every moment you spend reading my words and following my story. Thank you! 🙂

For now, it is time to get some more liquid in and a little snack before it’s time for bed.

Today, I was feeling better, health wise. Today, I felt I could run more. Today, I thought I could be stronger… Now, I feel I have failed myself… I can’t get out of my head… I can’t get positive… I just keep seeing more pounds on the scale…

January 12 Attempt: 40 minutes, 2.91 miles (4.4km)

Started off ok today, 3 minute walk warm up, 10 minute run, 1 minute walk, 4 minute run…. then a series of walking, running, walking… There were too many beeps; I kept changing the program… I couldn’t even keep track of what I was doing other than letting myself and you down.

Honestly, I feel pathetic. I couldn’t even get to 3 miles in 40 minutes…

According to Nike I’m averaging almost 9 minutes a km. Thats 3 minutes more than what I was running at last year…

I don’t want to give up the junky foods I like eating but I can’t get my head in a positive space to keep running on that treadmill….

Today I’ve been feeling pretty unattractive… Feeling extra heavy… Feeling Super Chunky… Didn’t help myself by having a cheeseburger at lunch… Came home and weighed myself, 2 extra pounds!! Geez. Feeling pretty bummed out tonight… Anyways, I got changed and went on the treadmill.

Before I get into running, I’d like to send out a special THANK YOU!! Three very amazing people have already donated to Camp Ooch in support of my 10k run! THANK YOU!
This year, I won’t be mentioning any names because God knows you’re wonderful people, and I’d like to keep those anonymous just the way they wanted to be seen. Regardless, you know who you are and I couldn’t be more blessed knowing such great individuals.

I’d also like to take this time to refer you over to my dear friend Robert. I have inspired him to join our Make Dreams Happen team in fundraising for Camp Ooch and join me in the 10k run. Please follow his story at Robert’s Blog. A few things here, Robert is the one who shed light on this run and introduced me to the charity. After researching a bit more, I couldn’t back out and recruited him to join in. We may have also recruited our VP of our company to run as well, but that’s yet to be finalized…

Make Dreams Happen is a common slogan at work, not only a motto in our workplace but it is a way of life. In our careers we strive to continue to Make Dreams Happen every day, there is no other name more appropriate for this team.

Today I’m feeling a bit better. Still coughing here and there with a raspy voice and sore throat. Nonetheless, I went to work, had a productive day, came home, sat on the couch….and sat some more… What a waste…

January 9 Interval Training: 30 minutes, 2.13 miles (3.4km)

Last year when I started running, I read all about interval training as a running plan. I couldn’t stick to any of them; I liked just getting outside and running until I couldn’t run anymore. Today, I started with a 3 minute warm up and ran 4 minutes, realized my chest and throat were killing me, walked 1 minute, ran 3 minutes, walked 1 minute, ran 3 minutes, walked 1 minute, ran 3 minutes, walked 1 minute, ran 3 minutes, walked 1 minute, ran 4 minutes, and walked 2 minutes.

It worked pretty well in helping me focus on trying to regulate my breathing and get some water in.
This will surely be a challenge to work myself up to even running 5k straight but I know it will happen… It has to!

Did you ever go to camp as a kid? Do your kids go to camp now? Or do you just like the idea camp?

My mom didn’t have the money to send me to camp as a child… So when I was 16, I got my first part time job. I saved some of the money I earned so I could go to Muskoka Woods for a leadership camp with my school. It was awesome!

I can imagine how tough it must be to not be able to afford camp… I can’t imagine how much tougher it must be to be so ill that camp seems out of question.

Please take a moment in your day to watch this video about Camp Oochigeas before you read on:

Camp Ooch, a place where sick children get to be children and not worry about being sick; A place where parents know their kids are in good hands and are having the time of their lives. Camp Ooch also goes to the children at SickKids hospital to provide in house camps as well.

Last year, thanks to you, I raised $505 to help find a cure for breast cancer and ran 5k. I thank you all for supporting me. I also promised I would raise money to do the 10k Terry Fox Run in September this year.

This year, I am being very ambitious… I have not been running for a while and let myself go… But… I will be running a 10k race on May 12, 2013 to raise money for kids to go to camp Ooch.

I encourage anyone who is interested to join me in this experience as I’m looking to create a team. Please, reach out to me if you’re even playing with the idea of joining or donate to support by clicking here.

We have four months, about 18 weeks, to train and raise money. I am hoping we can raise enough money to send a child to camp for one week, that’s a $1750 goal.

More About Camp Oochigeas

Camp Oochigeas is a privately funded, volunteer based organization that provides kids with cancer and kids affected by childhood cancer with a unique opportunity for growth through challenging, fun, enriching and magical experiences. Ooch allows kids with cancer to just be kids.

Camp Ooch does not receive government funding, and relies on the generosity of volunteers and donors like you, in order to make the magic of camp happen!

Today I had to take a sick day from work. I’ve completely lost my voice with a sore throat and chest pains, didn’t sleep much last night, and had a pounding headache all night and morning.

I’ve spent the last 18 hours sitting in bed trying to rest until I realized sleep wasn’t going to happen even though I had no energy. So why would I be blogging now? Well, I did it, I got up on the treadmill and used it!

January 8 Walk: 20 minutes, 1.23 miles (2km)

Ok, so I thought I could get away with doing a run but that didn’t happen. Started with a 5 minute warm up walk, ran a few minutes and realized my throat was burning and water wasn’t helping… I changed the pace and ended up walking/jogging for some time until I couldn’t take it anymore.

It may have been a bad idea to do this while my immune levels are so low and my body is busy fighting off this sickness… But on the other hand, wouldn’t this be the best time? If I can muster up the energy to do this now, I can definitely get to 10k when I’m healthy!

Anyways, thats it for now. Please keep reading as I have a very special blog to post later tonight!

I apologize for not blogging since my run in September. Unfortunately, I only ran once last year since the 5k and it was brutal! I promise I will not stray from my goals though.

I hit a bit of a running rut last year after the run. I got sidetracked and was distracted with some pretty good things in life, but I did gain another 10 pounds in 3 months. I’m sick of complaining about it being too cold, too dark, and just feeling unhealthy.

My goal this year is to lose 21 pounds and keep it off!

Yesterday marks a new milestone. I purchased a treadmill and now have no excuses not to run! Set up and ran my first time this morning!

$505 raised!! Thank you Christine Flynn and Tiffany Madden for your last minute donations!!! It means so much to me, every donation, like, and support in any way! I love you all, readers, fellow runners, supporters, everybody!

In sickness I have ran the distance!! Not quite the way I wanted to. It was tough. I’ve never ran where my throat was dry and sore, my chest hurt, and during day light, I wanted to lay down and die. It was hot!! I do have to admit I did stop quite a few times to walk, it hurt so bad physically and emotionally. Almost cried e first time my body gave out and said I need to breathe and stop. No tears though, just excitement, I did finish the run. Sadly in 37 minutes… 7 minutes over 😦

Thank you to my special guy for doing the run with me today!! No way I could have done it without you!! Your amazing words of encouragement and constantly slowing down to keep my pace made me tread on. Thank you!!

What’s next? Stay tuned! I plan on doing a 10k and will continue training and blogging!

Thank you again!! I love you all!!
Sincerely,
Diana Mach

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I have returned from California; no this was not a vacation, it was work – about four 17 hour work days straight… It was fun!.. I have not been out for a run in about two weeks. I have done quite a few long walks and a couple shorter runs, but no 5k. Tomorrow is the big day, 5k at 10:30 AM.

I’m super excited!

I know I’m not going to finish in the time I’d like to but even if I finish I’ll be super happy. I’m currently balled up hoping this travelers diarrhea and cold goes away before tomorrow. Sorry if that was too much information. I’ve been sick for the last two days as work life has now caught up with me and attacked my weak system. No big deal though, I will run tomorrow!

I’ve picked up my t-shirt and tag for tomorrow and have raised $445 in hopes for a better future for everyone!! Thank you everyone for your donations and support throughout this journey!!

I will blog again tomorrow once I’ve completed my run. Hopefully I can finish without passing out. Wish me luck, I’ll need it!

Good luck to all the other runners and walkers across Canada tomorrow. I hope you have an awesome day!